Christmas stories

Christmas is a global religious and cultural event that takes place every year on December 25 to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated by billions of people worldwide. Christmas Day is celebrated as a major festival and public holiday in countries across the globe, including some with majority non-Christian populations. In modern times, it has become a cultural holiday as well as a religious one.

In the attractions world, the festive season often begins in November and stretches into January. Theme parks, museums, zoos and more put on special events and themed nights. Following on from October’s Halloween season, many attractions will schedule later opening hours and offer extra entertainment in the run-up to Christmas. These include things like parades, live performers, light trails and festive food and drink.

One such event is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, hosted at Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Florida. During these evenings, the park closes early for day visitors, and party ticket-holders get to enjoy exclusive access to rides and attractions. There is also a Christmas parade, hot chocolate and cookies, and a festive fireworks display.

Light trails have become a big trend in recent years. These allow guests to see their favourite attractions in a new light on winter evenings. Elements often include immersive light tunnels and Christmas markets with food and drink. These are a popular way for heritage attractions in particular to attract a different audience. For example, there are successful light trails and winter light festivals at venues like Warwick Castle and Leonardslee Gardens in the UK.

Pop-up Christmas attractions are also popular. For instance, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland in London. This features rides, ice skating, food and drink, live entertainment and more.