![Christmas lights in Regent Street, London. [Image Diliff/Wikimedia]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2018/11/18/660x290/b_502x220x82/christmas-lights-in-regent-street-london-image-diliffwikimedia_2146343.jpg "Christmas lights in Regent Street, London. [Image Diliff/Wikimedia]")
While Christmas is celebrated in most countries of the world, London has a knack of throwing the best Christmas events, markets and festive activities.
Shop until you drop at London's Christmas markets, take the kids for a husky sled ride or to visit Santa and his elves, take a tour of the Christmas lights or have fun at this year's pantos.
Christmas markets in London
While Bavarians do Christmas markets very well, so does London. Fairground fun can be enjoyed at Winter Wonderland and Winterville, while Borough Market does food in style. Along the way, tuck into some roasted chestnuts to crown the event. You can roast your own around a fire at the National Trust Rainham Hall on 6 and 13 December.
Husky sled ride and Santa at the London Wetlands
As suggested by the Evening Standard, take the kids to Santa’s grotto at London Wetlands where they can meet the man himself, along with his elves. While there ride the donkeys and take a Husky sled ride, free of charge. Rides are suitable for children under the age of eight.
Christmas in Leicester Square
There’s another Santa’s grotto in Leicester Square, along with quaint wooden chalets, a funfair and food stalls selling seasonal grub. Visitors can also take in a Girls Aloud drag act where they are there. Enjoy carnivals, carol concerts and cabaret in the Big Top.
Pop into London for a panto
Watch “Peter Pan” at the Richmond Theatre with Robert Lindsay in the role of Hook – running from 8 December to 6 January 2019. Alternatively, head to the Hackney Empire to enjoy “Aladdin” from 24 November to 6 January.
See London’s Christmas lights
Last but not least, London’s various Christmas lights are turned on from 6 November and can be seen in Regent Street, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and other areas. According to the Londonist, one of the best ways to look at the lights is to hop on a bus and take a city tour.
