Christmas in India is not just a religious observance but a celebration of unity, togetherness, and the universal values of love, peace, and goodwill. Despite being a predominantly Hindu nation, the country embraces the spirit of Christmas with open arms, reflecting its inclusive and harmonious ethos. The occasion transcends religious boundaries, bringing people of all faiths together in camaraderie and shared joy.
How is Christmas celebrated in India?
In some regions, the festivities are marked by grand midnight masses and elaborate nativity scenes. In other places, the focus is on vibrant street decorations, caroling, and feasting on delectable delicacies. From the sun-kissed beaches of Goa to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the festivities take on a distinct character, infusing the season with a kaleidoscope of colors, flavors, and traditions.
1. Mumbai
Photo from Hamleys Wonderland
Join the Christmas events in Mumbai at the JioWorld Garden for the “Christmas Carnival” from December 18 to 25, featuring themed parades, a giant Christmas tree, and an ice-skating rink.
On Christmas Eve, the Gateway of India hosts a spectacular Christmas light show and a choir singing carols. The 2024 Christmas Eve Gala at the Taj Mahal Palace features a celebrity singer and an international cuisine buffet. Don’t miss the Christmas Day Parade at Marine Drive, where floats, dancers, and musicians spread cheer along the seafront.
2. Shillong
Photo from Incredible India
Christmas in Shillong is spectacular, with the city hosting the “Meghalaya Christmas Festival” at Polo Grounds. From December 20 to 25, enjoy local dance, traditional music performances, and a night market with festive goods. The city’s rich Christian heritage is on full display during midnight mass at the All Saints Cathedral and Laitumkhrah Presbyterian Church, making it a meaningful destination for holiday travelers.
3. Shimla
Experience a traditional white Christmas in Shimla with the ‘Shimla Winter Carnival’ along Ridge and Mall Road, beginning December 24. Activities include ice skating competitions, snowman building, and gourmet stalls selling hot chocolates and local delicacies.
The Ridge hosts a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Christmas Eve, attended by locals and tourists alike. The highlight is the Christmas Eve celebration with a choir performance at the historic Christ Church, followed by a traditional Himachali feast organized by local culinary institutes.
4. Kolkata
Photo from Kolkata Christmas Festival Facebook page
Places to visit in Kolkata during Christmas include Park Street. The Kolkata Christmas Festival features a special light show and a street food festival that highlights both Bengali and colonial-inspired delicacies.
On Christmas Eve, St. Paul’s Cathedral hosts a magnificent choir concert, which is free for everyone to attend. On Christmas morning, visit the Bow Barracks for a unique cultural walk through these historic quarters, where you can sample homemade wine and fruitcake with the locals.
5. Chennai
In Chennai, the famous San Thome Cathedral offers a special bilingual mass on Christmas Eve that culminates in a community sharing of Christmas Pongal, a sweetened rice dish. The Christmas Eve Bash at The Hard Rock Cafe Chennai includes festive beats and legendary food, making it a vibrant place to celebrate.
Other Christmas events in Chennai include several carol concerts, which run from mid-December to mid-January 2025 and showcase classical and contemporary performances.
6. Pondicherry
Christmas in Pondicherry captures its French past with a March de Noël, a festival that includes a Christmas market, a nativity play in the French Quarter, and wine-tasting sessions. The old French Quarter lights up with decorations, and the Notre Dame des Anges Church hosts a classical music concert. This year, the week-long celebration starts on December 19. The fireworks on Christmas Eve at Rock Beach are breathtaking, reflecting over the Bay of Bengal.
7. Bangalore
Photo from Mall of Phoenix Facebook page
Bangalore is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in India, and it has a vibrant cultural scene and an array of festive events. The 2024 holiday season is marked by festive events such as Sugar Factory Reloaded, Koramangala’s Christmas Eve party, and the Phoenix Mall of Asia’s Magical Christmas, featuring a grand Christmas tree, a Santa meet-and-greet, and more kid-friendly activities. For a more traditional celebration, visit St. Mark’s Cathedral for the Carols by Candlelight service on December 24.
8. Delhi
Photo from Republic of Zoofari
Delhi is a must-visit place during Christmas in India as the city is hosting several Christmas Markets this year. One of the most notable is DLF’s Unwrap December and The Sorbet Soiree Christmas Market 2024, where you can shop and be entertained in one venue.
Those with children can head to the Christmas Wonderland at the Republic of Zoofari to participate in interactive activities, unique gifts, and delicious treats. The Sacred Heart Cathedral holds a spectacular Christmas mass with a live broadcast across the city.
9. Kerala
Alappuzha (Alleppey) in Kerala is among the best places to visit during Christmas in India. This picturesque town comes alive with vibrant lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.
St. Mary’s Forane and St. Joseph’s Church hold special services and community carol singing, enhancing the celebrations. Unique Christmas cruises on the backwaters offer a memorable holiday experience, while traditional Kerala cuisines like Appam and stew or black halwa delight the senses.
10. Goa
Photo by Ryhor Bruyeu (Grisha Bruev) from Grisha Bruev
Goa’s unmatched Christmas spirit makes it one of the vibrant centers for Christmas celebrations in India. The festivities include traditional midnight masses at historic churches like Bom Jesus, where the community gathers to sing carols.
The streets and beaches, particularly in areas like Anjuna and Vagator, are alive with fireworks displays, parties, and music events that continue through the night. Attend the Goa Christmas Carnival, which features mask dances, beach parties, and live music from Christmas Eve until New Year.
Takeaway
What makes Christmas in India truly special is the warmth and hospitality with which it is embraced. Homes are adorned with twinkling lights, churches are bedecked with intricate decorations, and the air is filled with the melodious strains of carols. It is a time when communities unite, transcending boundaries of religion, caste, and creed, to celebrate the universal message of love, joy, and hope.
To make your holiday season unforgettable, explore these top places to visit during Christmas in India with OneAir. Sign up for FREE to discover exclusive travel deals and book your Christmas getaway effortlessly.
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