The Christmas holidays are a special time of year in the UK, filled with festive cheer, delicious food, and exciting activities. If you're planning to spend the holiday season in the UK, here's a rundown of the key dates and activities to look forward to.
The Christmas holidays in the UK typically begin on December 23rd and last until January 1st. During this time, many schools, businesses, and organizations close or reduce their hours, allowing people to relax and enjoy the festive season.
One of the most popular Christmas activities in the UK is decorating homes and gardens with lights, wreaths, and Christmas trees. Many towns and cities also host festive markets, selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drink.
Christmas Holidays 2019 UK Dates
Here are the key dates to note for the Christmas holidays in the UK:
- December 23rd: Christmas Eve Eve (many schools and businesses close early)
- December 24th: Christmas Eve (many schools and businesses closed)
- December 25th: Christmas Day (public holiday)
- December 26th: Boxing Day (public holiday)
- December 27th-30th: Winter holidays (many schools and businesses closed)
- December 31st: New Year's Eve (many schools and businesses close early)
- January 1st: New Year's Day (public holiday)
Christmas Activities in the UK
There are plenty of fun and festive activities to enjoy in the UK during the Christmas holidays. Here are a few ideas:
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Ice Skating
Ice skating is a popular Christmas activity in the UK, with many outdoor and indoor rinks opening up during the holiday season. Some of the most popular ice skating rinks include the Natural History Museum in London, the Edinburgh Ice Rink in Scotland, and the Manchester Ice Rink in the North West.
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Santa's Grotto
Many shopping centers and department stores in the UK offer Santa's Grotto, where children can meet Father Christmas and receive a gift. Some popular Santa's Grotto locations include Harrods in London, Selfridges in Manchester, and the Edinburgh Christmas Market in Scotland.
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Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are a staple of the festive season in the UK, offering a wide range of handmade crafts, delicious food and drink, and unique gifts. Some of the most popular Christmas markets include the Winter Wonderland in London's Hyde Park, the Manchester Christmas Market, and the Edinburgh Christmas Market.
Christmas Food and Drink in the UK
The UK is famous for its delicious Christmas food and drink, including traditional dishes such as turkey, roast beef, and mince pies. Here are a few festive food and drink ideas to try during the holiday season:
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Mince Pies
Mince pies are a traditional Christmas treat in the UK, made with a mixture of dried fruit, suet, and spices. They're perfect for snacking on while enjoying the festive season.
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Christmas Pudding
Christmas pudding is a rich and fruity dessert made with dried fruit, suet, and spices. It's traditionally served with brandy butter and is a staple of the UK Christmas dinner.
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Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a delicious and warming drink perfect for the festive season. Many cafes and restaurants in the UK offer hot chocolate made with rich and creamy milk, topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
Christmas Events in the UK
There are plenty of exciting Christmas events taking place in the UK during the holiday season. Here are a few ideas:
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London's Winter Wonderland
London's Winter Wonderland is a festive event held in Hyde Park, featuring ice skating, live music, and a Christmas market.
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Edinburgh's Christmas Market
Edinburgh's Christmas Market is a festive event held in the heart of the city, featuring a Christmas market, ice skating, and live music.
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Manchester's Christmas Lights Switch-On
Manchester's Christmas Lights Switch-On is a festive event held in the city center, featuring live music, fireworks, and the switching on of the city's Christmas lights.
What are the Christmas holidays in the UK?
+The Christmas holidays in the UK typically begin on December 23rd and last until January 1st.
What are some popular Christmas activities in the UK?
+Some popular Christmas activities in the UK include ice skating, visiting Santa's Grotto, and exploring Christmas markets.
What are some traditional Christmas foods in the UK?
+Some traditional Christmas foods in the UK include turkey, roast beef, mince pies, and Christmas pudding.
As the holiday season approaches, the UK comes alive with festive cheer and exciting activities. Whether you're interested in ice skating, visiting Santa's Grotto, or simply enjoying some delicious Christmas food and drink, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the UK during the Christmas holidays.