Christmas in the United Kingdom

Christmas in the United Kingdom is a festive, family-oriented celebration with a blend of traditions, seasonal activities, and cultural customs.

If you have just moved to the United Kingdom there is so much to look forward to over the festive season. The wonderful buzz of walking around the shops and Christmas markets with Christmas tunes playing in the background.

Although Christmas is celebrated in most countries , you will find the United Kingdom has some of its own special traditions.

Advent Calendars

Advent calendars are a popular tradition, especially in the lead-up to Christmas, that help count down the days until December 25th. They typically consist of a calendar with 24 doors or windows, one for each day from December 1st to December 24th, with a special surprise behind each door. The surprises can vary, but they are often small treats, such as chocolates, toys, or holiday-themed items.

You may want to start with advent calendars on the 1st of December. These are great fun for the kids and are also popular with the adults too. These can be purchased at shops and also online, or you could even make your own. If you search in google there will be many different ideas to make your own advent calendars for the kids or to give as gifts to friends and family.

Trees and decorations

Christmas trees are a beloved part of holiday traditions in the UK, and their history dates back several centuries. Here’s a look at the origins, significance, and how they’re celebrated today:

History of Christmas Trees in the UK

• Origins: The tradition of Christmas trees is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century, where trees were decorated with candles, fruits, and nuts. However, it wasn’t until the early 19th century that Christmas trees became popular in the UK.
• Royal Influence: The introduction of the Christmas tree to the British public is often attributed to Queen Victoria and her German-born husband, Prince Albert. In 1841, they were photographed with their children around a decorated Christmas tree at Windsor Castle. This image was widely published and helped popularize the tradition across Britain.

How Christmas Trees are Celebrated in the UK

• Choosing the Tree: In the UK, many people choose to have real trees, which are usually spruce, fir, or pine, although artificial trees are also popular for convenience. The trees are typically bought in early December and are displayed until Twelfth Night (January 6th), marking the end of the Christmas season.
• Decorating the Tree: Decorations vary by household, but common adornments include:
  • Lights: Twinkling fairy lights are a must for most trees, and some families go all out with elaborate lighting displays.
  • Baubles: Colorful glass, plastic, or wooden ornaments often adorn the branches, with many families passing down heirloom decorations.
  • Tinsel and Garland: Silver or gold tinsel and garlands are used to add sparkle and a festive touch.
  • Tree Topper: A star or angel is often placed at the top of the tree as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem.
  • Themed Decorations: Some families have specific themes for their trees, such as using only red and gold, or collecting ornaments based on a particular interest.
• The Christmas Tree in Public Spaces: In many UK cities, large, impressive Christmas trees are set up in public squares and parks. One of the most famous is the tree in Trafalgar Square, London, which is donated annually by Norway as a gesture of thanks for British support during World War II.

Environmental Considerations

• Real vs. Artificial Trees: The environmental impact of Christmas trees has been a topic of debate. Real trees are biodegradable and often come from sustainable farms, but they may require more transport. Artificial trees, though reusable for many years, are typically made from plastic and may end up in landfills if not properly disposed of.
• Recycling Trees: In many parts of the UK, people can recycle their Christmas trees after the season is over. Local councils often run tree recycling schemes where trees are chipped into mulch or composted.

Fun Facts

• The “Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree”: The tree in Trafalgar Square is traditionally a Norwegian spruce and has been a gift from Norway to the UK every year since 1947. It’s a symbol of the friendship between the two countries.
• The “Christmas Tree Ship”: In the 19th and 20th centuries, Christmas trees were brought to Britain from Scandinavia, with ships specifically known as “Christmas Tree Ships” carrying loads of trees to ports like London and Liverpool for distribution across the UK.

Santa’s grotto

A Santa’s Grotto is a festive, themed area set up during the Christmas season where children can meet Santa Claus and have their photo taken with him, often while giving him their Christmas wish lists. The grotto is typically decorated with Christmas lights, snow, and other holiday-themed decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s usually located in shopping centers, malls, or at special Christmas events, and sometimes includes additional activities like crafts, face painting, or gift shops.

The term “grotto” refers to a small, cave-like space, and the setup is meant to evoke the idea of a cozy, magical retreat where Santa resides during the holiday season. Children often look forward to visiting the grotto as part of their holiday traditions, and it’s a way for families to experience the magic of Christmas.

Santa on his sleigh

In many towns and cities you will Santa riding round the streets on his sleigh. Usually on his sleigh being pulled along by a car, or he may be on the back of a truck that has been all done up in the Christmas theme. Often these trips around the streets where kids can wave and say hello to Santa, are arranged by charities. As Santa drives past, you will often find people walking round door to door with buckets collecting for charity, so have some spare change ready on the night that he visits your street. There is usually loud Christmas music being played from the sleigh with Santa shouting “Ho, ho, ho and waving at the children as he drives past the houses.

Christmas food favourites in the United Kingdom

Mince Pies

Mince pies are traditional British pastries typically associated with Christmas. They are small, round pies filled with a sweet mixture known as “mincemeat.” Despite the name, mincemeat doesn’t contain any meat today. Instead, it consists of dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants, along with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, mixed with suet (or vegetable fat), sugar, and sometimes alcohol like brandy or rum.

Mince pies are often made with shortcrust pastry and can be either open or topped with a pastry lid, sometimes with a decorative shape (like a star) on top. They are commonly served during the festive season, enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and are often eaten with a cup of tea or mulled wine.

Historically, mince pies were much larger and sometimes contained meat, such as lamb or beef, along with fruit and spices. Over time, the meat was phased out, and they evolved into the sweet treats we recognize today.

Unbelievably easy mince pies recipe

Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding, also known as plum pudding, is a traditional British dessert served at Christmas dinner. Despite its name, it does not contain plums; the “plum” refers to dried fruits, especially raisins, sultanas, and currants, which are key ingredients in the pudding.

Christmas pudding is made from a rich mixture of dried fruits, suet (beef or vegetable fat), flour, breadcrumbs, sugar, eggs, and a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It also often includes treacle or molasses for sweetness and moisture, as well as alcohol, typically brandy, which gives the pudding its distinctive flavor. The pudding is traditionally steamed for several hours, creating a dense, dark, and sticky texture.

The preparation of Christmas pudding is steeped in tradition. In many families, the pudding is made in advance (sometimes as early as November) and allowed to mature, which helps to enhance the flavors. The pudding is usually served hot, often accompanied by brandy butter, custard, or cream. A festive touch is added by lighting the pudding on fire with brandy just before serving, creating a dramatic flame as it is brought to the table.

Historically, Christmas pudding was thought to symbolize the coming of Christ, with its round shape representing the Holy Family and the spices symbolizing the gifts brought by the Wise Men. It was traditionally made on “Stir-up Sunday,” the last Sunday before Advent, when families would gather to stir the ingredients together and make a wish.

In some families, small charms or coins were hidden inside the pudding, and it was believed that finding them would bring good luck for the year ahead.

Ultimate Christmas pudding recipe

Christmas dinner in the United Kingdom

A traditional UK Christmas dinner is a festive and hearty meal, often enjoyed on Christmas Day (December 25th). It typically includes a combination of meat, vegetables, potatoes, and rich sauces, along with some classic accompaniments. Here’s what you might expect to find in a traditional Christmas dinner in the UK:

1. Main Course:

• Roast Turkey: The most common centerpiece of a British Christmas dinner. The turkey is often stuffed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and sometimes sausage meat, and then roasted until golden and crispy. In some households, roast goose, duck, or even beef may be served instead of turkey.
• Stuffing: This is often made from a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, sausage meat, onions, and sometimes nuts or dried fruit.
• Gravy: Rich, savory gravy made from the meat drippings, sometimes with the addition of red wine or stock.
• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart accompaniment for the turkey.

2. Vegetables:

• Brussels Sprouts: These little cabbage-like vegetables are a Christmas staple in the UK, often boiled or steamed and sometimes sautéed with bacon or chestnuts.
• Carrots: Usually roasted or boiled, sometimes glazed with honey or butter.
• Parsnips: Roasted parsnips are another popular side dish, often drizzled with honey or tossed in olive oil.
• Roast Potatoes: Crispy and golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these are a must-have on a Christmas plate. They’re often roasted in goose fat for extra flavor and crispiness.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are also commonly served, especially alongside the gravy.

3. Accompaniments:

• Pigs in Blankets: Small sausages wrapped in streaky bacon, often served as a side dish or snack.
• Yorkshire Pudding: This is more typical in the north of England and may be served alongside the roast if beef is the main dish. It’s a fluffy, savory batter dish, often served with gravy.
• Bread Sauce: A creamy sauce made from milk, breadcrumbs, and spices, typically served with turkey.

4. Desserts:

• Christmas Pudding: A rich, dark, steamed pudding made with suet, dried fruits, and spices. It’s often flambéed with brandy before serving and accompanied by brandy butter or cream.
• Trifle: A layered dessert made with sponge cake, fruit, jelly, custard, and whipped cream. It’s a lighter alternative to Christmas pudding.
• Yule Log (Bûche de Noël): A chocolate sponge cake rolled into a log shape and decorated to resemble a tree branch, often covered in chocolate buttercream.
• Minced Pies: These are small, sweet pies filled with spiced fruit mincemeat (a mix of dried fruits, spices, and sometimes brandy or rum).

5. Drinks:

• Mulled Wine: A spiced, warm red wine, typically infused with cloves, cinnamon, orange, and other spices.
• Christmas Ale or Cider: Many people enjoy a seasonal beer or cider with their Christmas meal.
• Eggnog: While more popular in the U.S., some people in the UK also enjoy this creamy, spiced drink during the festive season.
• Hot Chocolate: Often enjoyed by children and adults alike, sometimes served with whipped cream or marshmallows.

6. Additional Traditions:

• Christmas Crackers: These colorful paper tubes are pulled apart at the dinner table, often containing small toys, jokes, or party hats. It’s a fun tradition before or during the meal.

This traditional spread can vary slightly depending on regional preferences or family customs, but the general elements of roast meat, potatoes, vegetables, and festive desserts are common across the UK.

Jamie Olivers Christmas recipe hub

Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a warm, spiced alcoholic beverage traditionally made by heating red wine and infusing it with a variety of aromatic spices and fruits. It’s especially popular during colder months, often around the winter holidays. The spices typically include cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, star anise, and sometimes ginger, along with citrus fruits like orange and lemon. The wine is usually sweetened with sugar, honey, or maple syrup, and it’s simmered gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

Mulled wine is often served at Christmas markets or during cozy gatherings, and it’s a comforting drink that pairs well with festive foods. The alcohol content remains, but it’s reduced by heating, so it’s a mellow, fragrant drink that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.

Easy mulled wine recipe

Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in the UK are a beloved tradition, offering festive shopping, food, drink, and entertainment during the holiday season. Inspired by European markets, especially those from Germany, these markets pop up in many cities and towns across the UK, typically starting in late November and running until Christmas Eve or just after. They are a key part of the holiday atmosphere, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Here are some of the standout features of Christmas markets in the UK:

1. Festive Stalls and Shopping

Christmas markets are famous for their wooden stalls or chalets, which offer a range of festive goods, including:

• Handmade gifts: Jewelry, ornaments, pottery, scarves, and textiles.
• Toys and decorations: Beautifully crafted Christmas decorations, such as baubles, wreaths, and candles.
• Unique food and drink: Spiced mulled wine, hot chocolate, bratwurst, mince pies, roasted chestnuts, and other seasonal treats.
• Artisan products: Handmade soaps, candles, and local crafts.

2. Festive Food and Drink

Food is a central part of UK Christmas markets, and visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious treats. Popular choices include:

• Mulled wine (or mulled cider): Hot, spiced wine is a favorite at the markets, often served in commemorative mugs.
• Hot chocolate: Sometimes topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
• Traditional foods: Bratwurst sausages, Yorkshire pudding wraps, fish and chips, and turkey sandwiches.
• Sweet treats: Mince pies, gingerbread, candy canes, roasted chestnuts, and stollen (a German fruit bread).

3. Entertainment and Activities

Many Christmas markets feature live performances and activities, such as:

• Carol singing: Local choirs often perform Christmas carols, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Fairground rides: Some markets have ice rinks, ferris wheels, or carousel rides, which are especially popular with families.
• Santa’s grotto: In larger markets, there’s often a special area where children can meet Santa Claus and tell him their Christmas wishes.
• Street performers: Jugglers, magicians, and musicians often entertain visitors.

4. Iconic Christmas Markets in the UK

Some of the most famous Christmas markets in the UK include:

• Manchester Christmas Markets: One of the largest and most famous in the UK, with over 300 stalls spread across the city center, offering a huge variety of food, gifts, and entertainment.
• Edinburgh Christmas Market: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this market features traditional wooden stalls selling gifts, food, and mulled wine, with the beautiful backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
• Bath Christmas Market: Known for its stunning Georgian architecture, Bath’s Christmas market is smaller but very charming, with over 170 wooden chalets offering a variety of local and handmade goods.
• London Christmas Markets: There are several Christmas markets in London, with Southbank Centre Winter Market and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park being particularly popular. These markets offer shopping, entertainment, and festive food, with the added bonus of the city’s Christmas lights and attractions.
• Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market: As the largest German market in the UK, it offers authentic German gifts, food, and drink, including bratwurst, pretzels, and traditional German beers.

5. Magical Atmosphere

The ambiance of Christmas markets is truly magical, with twinkling lights, festive music, and the smell of seasonal treats filling the air. Many markets are set up in historic town centers, which enhances the charm, as cobbled streets and old buildings serve as a picturesque backdrop to the festive stalls. Visitors often wander through the markets, sipping mulled wine, enjoying the decorations, and soaking up the holiday spirit.

Overall, Christmas markets in the UK are a festive celebration of the holiday season, blending shopping, entertainment, and tradition, and they’ve become a key part of Christmas celebrations for many people across the country.

Some helpful links if you want to find out more about Christmas markets in the UK.

• 18 of the best Christmas markets in the UK for 2024
• The 16 best Christmas markets in the UK for 2024
• The best Christmas markets in the UK for 2024
• Best Christmas Markets in UK: Open Dates, Activities, Location
• Explore Britain’s 2024 Christmas markets

Christmas shows and entertainment

Christmas markets in the UK are a beloved tradition, offering festive shopping, food, drink, and entertainment during the holiday season. Inspired by European markets, especially those from Germany, these markets pop up in many cities and towns across the UK, typically starting in late November and running until Christmas Eve or just after. They are a key part of the holiday atmosphere, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Here are some of the standout features of Christmas markets in the UK:

1. Festive Stalls and Shopping

Christmas markets are famous for their wooden stalls or chalets, which offer a range of festive goods, including:

• Handmade gifts: Jewelry, ornaments, pottery, scarves, and textiles.
• Toys and decorations: Beautifully crafted Christmas decorations, such as baubles, wreaths, and candles.
• Unique food and drink: Spiced mulled wine, hot chocolate, bratwurst, mince pies, roasted chestnuts, and other seasonal treats.
• Artisan products: Handmade soaps, candles, and local crafts.

2. Festive Food and Drink

Food is a central part of UK Christmas markets, and visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious treats. Popular choices include:

• Mulled wine (or mulled cider): Hot, spiced wine is a favorite at the markets, often served in commemorative mugs.
• Hot chocolate: Sometimes topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
• Traditional foods: Bratwurst sausages, Yorkshire pudding wraps, fish and chips, and turkey sandwiches.
• Sweet treats: Mince pies, gingerbread, candy canes, roasted chestnuts, and stollen (a German fruit bread).

3. Entertainment and Activities

Many Christmas markets feature live performances and activities, such as:

• Carol singing: Local choirs often perform Christmas carols, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Fairground rides: Some markets have ice rinks, ferris wheels, or carousel rides, which are especially popular with families.
• Santa’s grotto: In larger markets, there’s often a special area where children can meet Santa Claus and tell him their Christmas wishes.
• Street performers: Jugglers, magicians, and musicians often entertain visitors.

4. Iconic Christmas Markets in the UK

Some of the most famous Christmas markets in the UK include:

• Manchester Christmas Markets: One of the largest and most famous in the UK, with over 300 stalls spread across the city center, offering a huge variety of food, gifts, and entertainment.
• Edinburgh Christmas Market: Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this market features traditional wooden stalls selling gifts, food, and mulled wine, with the beautiful backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
• Bath Christmas Market: Known for its stunning Georgian architecture, Bath’s Christmas market is smaller but very charming, with over 170 wooden chalets offering a variety of local and handmade goods.
• London Christmas Markets: There are several Christmas markets in London, with Southbank Centre Winter Market and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park being particularly popular. These markets offer shopping, entertainment, and festive food, with the added bonus of the city’s Christmas lights and attractions.
• Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market: As the largest German market in the UK, it offers authentic German gifts, food, and drink, including bratwurst, pretzels, and traditional German beers.

5. Magical Atmosphere

The ambiance of Christmas markets is truly magical, with twinkling lights, festive music, and the smell of seasonal treats filling the air. Many markets are set up in historic town centers, which enhances the charm, as cobbled streets and old buildings serve as a picturesque backdrop to the festive stalls. Visitors often wander through the markets, sipping mulled wine, enjoying the decorations, and soaking up the holiday spirit.

Overall, Christmas markets in the UK are a festive celebration of the holiday season, blending shopping, entertainment, and tradition, and they’ve become a key part of Christmas celebrations for many people across the country.

Christmas shows in the UK are a cherished part of the holiday season, offering a wide range of festive performances for families, theatergoers, and visitors. These shows come in many forms, from classic pantomimes to elaborate stage productions, concerts, and ballet performances. They add to the magic and joy of the season, providing entertainment and festive cheer. Here’s an overview of the most popular types of Christmas shows in the UK:

1. Pantomimes (Pantos)

Pantomime is a distinctly British tradition during the Christmas season. Pantomimes are theatrical performances, often based on fairy tales or folk stories, but with a humorous and interactive twist. The performances are family-friendly, featuring slapstick comedy, catchy songs, and plenty of audience participation. Pantomimes usually incorporate:

• Gender-bending roles: Traditional pantos often feature men playing female roles (e.g., the fairy godmother) or women playing male roles (e.g., the principal boy).
• Audience interaction: The audience is encouraged to shout phrases like “Oh no, it isn’t!” or “Behind you!” at key moments in the show.
• Stars: Many pantos feature popular celebrities or comedians, making them a big draw for audiences.

Some well-known pantomimes include:

• Cinderella
• Aladdin
• Jack and the Beanstalk
• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Pantomimes are staged in theaters across the country, from large venues in London’s West End to regional theaters and smaller community halls.

2. West End Christmas Shows

London’s West End hosts several major productions during the Christmas season, with festive-themed performances or long-running shows offering a seasonal twist. Popular Christmas shows and musicals include:

• “The Nutcracker” (Ballet): The Royal Ballet’s production of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is a long-standing Christmas tradition. The performance tells the story of a young girl, Clara, who is whisked away into a magical world of dancing sweets and toy soldiers.
• “A Christmas Carol”: Many theaters in London and beyond put on adaptations of Charles Dickens’ beloved story, which tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miserly old man to a generous soul.
• “The Snowman”: This stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ classic children’s book is a magical, dance-filled show based on the beloved animated film. With a live orchestra and stunning choreography, it captures the wonder of the story.

3. Christmas Concerts and Carol Services

Throughout December, there are numerous Christmas concerts and carol services across the UK, offering a more musical and spiritual experience of the holiday season. Some of the most famous include:

• Carols at the Royal Albert Hall: This iconic London venue hosts several Christmas concerts, including Carols by Candlelight and The Christmas Festival. These events feature choirs, orchestras, and soloists performing traditional carols and festive music.
• Christmas Carol Services: Major cathedrals, such as Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, host beautiful candlelit services with choral music. Other churches across the country also have special services, often featuring famous choirs and readings from the Bible’s Nativity story.
• “Messiah” by Handel: This renowned oratorio, often performed in cathedrals and concert halls, is a popular choice during the Christmas season. It features the famous “Hallelujah” chorus, which is a highlight of many holiday performances.

4. Christmas Ballets

Christmas-themed ballet performances are another festive tradition in the UK. The two most iconic ballets associated with Christmas are:

• “The Nutcracker”: This is the quintessential Christmas ballet, with its beautiful score by Tchaikovsky and its magical story of a young girl’s Christmas Eve adventures. It’s performed by major ballet companies across the UK, including the Royal Ballet and English National Ballet.
• “Coppélia”: Though not strictly a Christmas story, Coppélia is often performed around the holiday season. It’s a charming tale of a doll brought to life and features delightful, whimsical choreography.

5. Christmas Theatre and Family Shows

There are also many Christmas-themed plays and family-oriented performances during the holiday season. These shows range from adaptations of classic holiday tales to original festive productions. Notable examples include:

• “The Polar Express”: Many theaters offer live adaptations of this beloved Christmas book and movie, telling the story of a young boy’s magical train ride to the North Pole.
• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”: This popular family musical based on Dr. Seuss’ story is often staged at various theaters during the holiday season, especially in larger cities like London.
• “Peter Pan”: A perennial favorite at Christmas, this magical play often features spectacular special effects and is performed at theaters around the UK.

6. Festive Shows for Kids

In addition to pantomimes, there are many children’s Christmas shows that include interactive theater, live performances, and magical experiences. Some of these are more immersive or experiential, such as:

• Santa’s Grotto Shows: Many venues offer interactive experiences where children can meet Santa, watch him prepare for Christmas, and enjoy a mini-show or interactive storytelling experience.
• Interactive Christmas Adventures: Shows where families can participate in the story or help solve a holiday mystery.

7. Festive Cinema Screenings

Many cinemas in the UK offer special Christmas movie screenings, often featuring classic films. Some cinemas show a mixture of family-friendly films like Home Alone, The Grinch, and Elf, while others focus on holiday classics like It’s a Wonderful Life or Love Actually.

Christmas shows in the UK add to the festive spirit, whether through laughter-filled pantomimes, grand ballet performances, beautiful concerts, or magical family events. They are a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories for people of all ages.

• Best Christmas shows and pantomimes in London 2024
• Thursford Christmas spectacular
• Christmas Theatre Tickets Tickets
• Christmas Theatre Guide 2024
• Best 14 Christmas theatre productions

Keep your pets safe

Helpful information to keep your pets safe

The most common types of Christmas trees including pine, fir and spruce are not highly toxic to dogs, but oils they produce and the pine needles that drop from the tree can pose a risk. Not only can the sharp pine needles get stuck in your dog’s paws, they can also cause a mild stomach upset or blockage if eaten.

At Christmas, with a variety of different foods and decorations on display, the number of hazards in the home can rise. One of those risks? The humble mince pie, due to the raisins, currants or sultanas inside. These contain tartaric acid which is toxic for dogs and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

What NOT to give dogs at Christmas?

• Chocolate. All kinds of chocolate should be kept away from pets as it contains a stimulant called theobromine. …
• Mince pies. Raisins, currants, and sultanas can all be fatal to dogs. …
• Gravy and stuffing. …
• Turkey skin and bones. …
• Nuts.

Christmas gift ideas