Christmas is coming and we’re all starting to feel very Christmassy here at dealchecker. However, for those who have yet to embrace the festive season, there are a whole host of destinations with light displays that will have you feeling cheery. Here, we round up the very best of them!
Monte Carlo
Each winter, Monte Carlo is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with Casino Square becoming bedecked by conifers and gleaming lights. If you can tear yourself away from the lights there are a whole host of activities to partake in. You can glide around on the ice rink, take a turn on the ferris wheel, or warm up with a hot drink.
Melbourne
Christmas in Melbourne in many ways could not be more different than Christmas in the UK. However, while they may be basking in sunny weather and enjoying the height of midsummer, they really go to town with the Christmas decor. The celebrations usually centre around Federation Square where a huge tree stands, and a light display sets the square ablaze with colour each evening at 9pm.
Copenhagen
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is already arguably the world’s most picturesque theme park, but at Christmastime it reaches whole new levels of dreaminess. There’s a market selling sweets, toys and trinkets, a Christmas cabaret and lights which make the glass-like lake appear to twinkle. The Moorish-style castle is also covered in tiny lights, making for a great photo opportunity!
Madrid
When it comes to Christmas lights, Madrid really goes to town, with lights shining across the entire city. These light displays are designed by architects, graphic designers and local artists and change each year – some highlights include a star-inspired display at Calle Alcalá and Puerta de Sol where a huge tree like structure stands. Additionally, on the 21st December, the Light Procession usually takes place to mark the winter solstice. Thousands of paper lanterns are released into the sky alongside a huge firework display.
Tokyo
Each December, Tokyo becomes adorned with lights. Over a million lights sit across the city’s streets and it feels as though each district competes to be the brightest and the best. It’s hard to narrow down the city’s best but our favourites include the 750 metres of blue lights between Koen-dori and Yoyoyi Park that create an ethereal feel, and the Tokyo Dome City’s lights, which have previously been themed on a nostalgic candy land.
Happy holidays from the dealchecker team!
Please note that some of the attractions we’ve mentioned may not be open during Christmas 2020.