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Vada Magazine rounds up some incredible Christmas Light Shows to visit during the festive period this year, with trails in both North, South, and West London.
Lightopia at Crystal Palace
Lightopia, after a brief stint last year, has just launched fully at Crystal Palace Park for the first time, as the newest of London’s Christmas lights festivals.
The never-before-seen illuminated trail will feature stunning, multi-sensory interactive lights and installations, creating a winter wonderland bursting with colour, making this a spectacular, festive season must! The trail includes a Christmas zone, a butterfly field, a (rather camp and fabulous) phoenix, a rainbow road in flowers, the story of the rebirth of Crystal Palace and many other installations.
Food and drink stalls are dotted throughout the trail, offering all sorts of treats including mulled wine, to keep guests warm as they meander along the 2km trail of illuminations.
Lightopia has also opened light trails in Manchester and in Alton Towers.
When: 19 November 2021 – 2 January 2022
Price: from £19.50 for adults
More information: london.lightopiafestival.com
Christmas at Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath
The grounds of London’s iconic Kenwood House will be transformed into a spectacular winter haven, featuring immense Christmas illuminations and installations of light, fire and sound, allowing visitors to step into a winter Narnia. Instagrammable installations include a breath-taking light avenue, laser garden and a unique ethereal sculpture made by renowned artist Hannelora Johansson. The trail concludes with a charming display that features the iconic Kenwood House itself.
Nestled amongst the illuminations are a range of food vendors and fully licensed bars, providing the perfect backdrop for visitors to rest and relax whilst enjoying festive favourites such as mince pies, spiced cider and mulled wine.
When: 26 November 2021 – 9 January 2022
Price: from £21.50 for adults with VIP packages available
More information: Christmasatkenwood.org
Christmas at Kew
Kew Gardens reopens its annual magical winter trail lights for the evening skies of winter 2021. Christmas at Kew offers after-dark festivities with family and friends, as guests discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour on their way to the panoramic Palm House light display. Along the way, there is a mesmerising flickering flames in the Fire Garden, and an opportunity to say hello to Father Christmas along the way.
The route includes independent street food vendors who offer tasty festive delights, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate.
When: 17 November – 9 January
Price: from £21.50 for adults
More information kew.org