Feminist Urbanism Approach to Urban Planning
November 2, 2024
A list of the world’s most popular Christmas cities
It’s hard to find a place in the world that doesn’t celebrate Christmas in some way, shape, or form. Every year, millions of people around the world flock to some of the most admired Christmas cities to enjoy the festive season. From the cobblestone streets of Europe to the snow-covered streets of North America, here are some of the most admired Christmas cities across the world.
Vienna, Austria
Christmas is a joyous occasion in Vienna, Austria. Every year, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive decorations and celebrations. From outdoor markets and light displays to traditional Christmas concerts, Vienna is the perfect place to experience Christmas.
The Christmas decorations in Vienna are some of the most beautiful in the world. Every year, the city is adorned with colorful lights and decorations that turn the streets into a magical holiday experience. The streets are lined with festive trees and lights, while the shops and buildings are decorated with intricate ornaments. On the main squares, large Christmas trees can be found, as well as several nativity scenes.
One of the highlights of Vienna’s Christmas decorations is the Christmas Markets. These markets are filled with unique gifts, decorations, and traditional Austrian food and drink. Visitors can enjoy snacks like Glühwein (mulled wine) and Bratwurst, as well as browse through a variety of handmade crafts and gifts. There are also numerous entertainment options, from carolers to puppet shows and live music
New York City, United States
Christmas decorations in New York City, United States, are some of the most extravagant and beautiful in the world. Every Christmas season, the city dazzles with festive lights, elaborate window displays, and dazzling decorations. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the awe-inspiring holiday window displays, New York City truly comes alive at Christmas time.
One of the most iconic Christmas decorations in New York City is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Every year, a large and beautiful Christmas tree is erected in the center of Rockefeller Center. The tree is typically a Norway Spruce and is usually between 75 and 100 feet tall. It is adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and a stunning Swarovski star for the top. The tree is lit with a special ceremony and the tree remains lit until January 7th.
Another beloved tradition in New York City is the holiday window displays. Every year, department stores such as Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s put up extravagant window displays for the holidays. These displays often feature traditional holiday scenes such as Santa Claus, reindeer, and snowmen, as well as more modern takes on the holiday season. The displays often feature moving figures and other effects, making them a truly spectacular sight
London, United Kingdom
Christmas is a magical time of year and London, United Kingdom is one of the most beautiful cities to visit and celebrate the holiday season. The streets of London are filled with festive decorations that are sure to get you in the spirit of Christmas. From the famous lights of Oxford Street to Trafalgar Square and the Christmas markets, London is a wonderful place to explore during the holiday season.
Oxford Street is one of the most popular destinations for Christmas decorations in London. Every year, the area is illuminated with colorful lights and decorations that stretch from Marble Arch to Oxford Circus. Oxford Street is a great place to do some Christmas shopping and the festive atmosphere makes it even more enjoyable. Not only is Oxford Street decorated for Christmas but also the stores and restaurants in the area often have their own decorations as well.
Another popular destination is Trafalgar Square. During the Christmas season, the square is adorned with an enormous Christmas tree and festive decorations. The Christmas tree is a gift from Norway and is normally lit up on the first Sunday of December. Trafalgar Square is also a great place to take in the atmosphere of Christmas and enjoy the live music and entertainment.
Prague, Czech Republic
The beautiful old town of Prague is especially enchanting during the holiday season. To begin with, the streets are lined with Christmas lights and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. The Old Town Square is particularly impressive, with its huge Christmas tree, towering above the other buildings and dominating the center of the square. The tree is usually adorned with a large golden star on the top and is surrounded by a multitude of smaller Christmas trees.
The Christmas markets of Prague are another highlight of the holiday season. They are usually set up in the Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and other public spaces throughout the city. Here, visitors can purchase a variety of goods, from traditional Czech handicrafts to festive seasonal foods. The smell of freshly baked gingerbread, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts fill the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Prague’s churches and cathedrals are also decorated for the holidays. The churches are adorned with evergreen garlands and festive decorations, and often host special Christmas services. During the holiday season, the bell-ringing and caroling of the churches creates a beautiful ambiance, making it the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Nuremberg, Germany
The city of Nuremberg is known for its traditional Christmas markets, or Weihnachtsmärkte, where visitors can find a variety of handmade crafts and treats. One of the largest and most popular markets is the Nuremberg Christmas Market, which takes place in the main square in front of the Frauenkirche. Here, visitors can find traditional wooden nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks, and hand-blown glass ornaments from the Erzgebirge region. There are also stalls selling traditional German candies, such as Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and Marzipan (almond candy).
The streets of Nuremberg are also adorned with festive holiday lights and decorations, including colorful wreaths and garlands, as well as a variety of other festive displays. One of the most popular is a large Advent calendar in the main square, which is lit up in the evenings. This Advent calendar is a traditional German tradition, with 24 windows that are opened each day in December leading up to Christmas.
On Christmas Eve, the Nuremberg Christmas Tree is lit up in the city’s main square. This tree is an important symbol of the holiday season in Nuremberg, and is adorned with thousands of lights, ornaments, and garlands. After the tree is lit, a festive Christmas parade, or Christkindlesmarkt, is held in the square, with floats, musicians, and dancers.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Christmas decorations in Rovaniemi, Finland, are truly a sight to behold. Located in the Arctic Circle, this city is renowned for its winter activities, so it’s no surprise that its holiday decorations are some of the best in the world. From the traditional decorations of the Christmas Market to the iconic reindeer and snowmen of the Santa Claus Village, the festive atmosphere of Rovaniemi is sure to lift your spirits.
The Christmas Market is the main attraction in Rovaniemi during the holiday season. Here, you can find a variety of festive items, from traditional Finnish handicrafts to modern decorations. Christmas lights, lanterns, and garlands are also popular. The Christmas Market is held in the main square in Rovaniemi, where vendors sell their wares all throughout the month of December. You can also find a wide variety of traditional Finnish Christmas dishes, including reindeer, salmon, and herring.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland is a beautiful city filled with rich history and culture, and during the holiday season, it really comes alive with Christmas decorations on every street corner. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the iconic Princes Street Gardens, the entire city is transformed into a winter wonderland during this time of year.
One of the most iconic sights during Christmas in Edinburgh is the traditional Christmas Market at Princes Street Gardens. The market is filled with festive decorations, local vendors selling handmade gifts and festive foods, and of course, the towering Christmas tree. The tree is lit up in the evenings and is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The lights twinkling in the night sky provide a magical atmosphere for those who come to visit.
The Christmas decorations in Edinburgh don’t stop at the Christmas Market. The entire city is filled with festive decorations, from the traditional Scottish tartans to the brightly coloured lights that line the streets. The city’s iconic monuments, such as the Edinburgh Castle, are also decorated with a special festive touch during the winter season. The castle is lit up with hundreds of tiny white fairy lights, creating a romantic atmosphere for those who come to visit.
Dubai
Dubai is known for its grandeur and extravagance, and when it comes to Christmas decorations, it is no exception. The city’s malls, hotels and streets are lit up with colourful lights and decorations that bring the festive cheer to the city. This festive season, Dubai has put up an array of breathtaking Christmas decorations, from traditional trees and lights to modern art installations.
At the Dubai Mall, visitors will be delighted to find a giant Christmas tree standing tall in the centre of the mall. The tree is decorated with warm fairy lights, glittering ornaments, and a glittering star at the top. The mall also includes a variety of themed decorations, from life-sized snowmen and reindeer to illuminated nutcracker figures and a toy train.
For a different kind of Christmas experience, visitors should head to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The tower is adorned with thousands of colourful lights and figures, creating a magical Christmas display. On the ground level, a festive market has been set up with a variety of stalls selling holiday treats and gifts.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known for its dynamic and colorful culture, and the Christmas season is no exception. Every year, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, light displays, and holiday cheer.
Christmas decorations start to appear in late November, bringing a festive and joyous atmosphere to the city. One of the most popular decorations are the festive lights and garlands, which can be found draped on trees and buildings all around the city. The illuminated decorations can be seen from a distance, creating a magical atmosphere in the city.
At night, the city’s skyline is transformed with a plethora of colorful Christmas lights and decorations. A popular spot to view the lights is along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. Tourists and locals alike gather to marvel at the glittering lights and decorations, which are often accompanied by live music.
In addition to the lights, decorations can also be found in shopping malls and other public spaces. These decorations often include Christmas trees, festive banners, and Santa Claus figures. Some stores also create elaborate window displays and festive decorations, adding to the Christmas atmosphere.
Quebec City, Canada
Christmas in Quebec City is a truly magical experience. Every year, the city is adorned with festive decorations and lights, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
The holiday season in Quebec City begins in late November when the city centre is lit up with thousands of twinkling lights. The city centre is also home to the city’s largest Christmas market, the Marché de Noël de Québec, which features a variety of festive activities and vendors throughout the month of December. Visitors can wander through the market and purchase unique souvenirs and Christmas decorations, as well as sample traditional Québécois food.
The streets of Quebec City are also filled with festive decorations during the holiday season. The Château Frontenac is decorated with a spectacular light and sound show, while the city’s historic buildings are adorned with giant snowflakes, reindeer, and stars. The Place Royale, the oldest part of the city, is transformed into a winter wonderland each year with its colourful lights and decorations.
Christmas in Quebec City also includes many traditional celebrations. The Noël des Neiges is a popular winter festival featuring activities such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and horse drawn sleigh rides.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Christmas is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year and in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil it is an especially joyous occasion. It is a time of celebration, family, and of course, decorations. Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant city and its decorations for Christmas are no exception.
Every December, the city is lit up in bright colors and festive decorations. Christmas lights adorn nearly every building in the city, from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue to the homes of everyday citizens. The lights often come in an array of colors, from classic whites and reds to more vivid pinks and blues.
The streets of Rio de Janeiro come alive during the Christmas season, with lively music and decorations galore. The trees in the city are festooned with baubles and lights and the air filled with the sounds of carolers and holiday music. Markets and fairs pop up throughout the city, filled with decorations, gifts and treats.
Rome, Italy
Christmas decoration in Rome, Italy is a special event that captures the beauty of the city’s culture and history. Every year, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with lights, trees, and decorations that create an atmosphere of joy and wonder.
The Christmas decorations in Rome begin in late November, when street vendors and stores start selling Christmas lights and decorations. From simple strings of lights to intricate and ornate pieces, the variety of decorations available is truly incredible. The decorations are often hung in the streets or in front of buildings, creating a festive atmosphere.
In addition to the lights and decorations, Rome also has some of the most spectacular Christmas trees in the world. Decorated with ornamental baubles and twinkling lights, these Christmas trees are often located in public squares and parks, and they are a sight to behold.
Along with the decorations, Rome also has a variety of seasonal events and activities to enjoy during the holidays. From the traditional Christmas markets to concerts and plays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Sydney, Australia
Christmas in Sydney is always a magical time of year. From the city’s iconic Opera House to the bustling shopping precincts, the festive season is a time for joy and celebration. During this time, Sydney is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, Christmas lights, and plenty of holiday cheer.
One of the most popular Christmas decorations in Sydney is the iconic Christmas tree at Martin Place, which is located in the heart of the city. The tree is usually decorated with ornaments, lights and other festive decorations, and it is a must-see for all visitors. Other popular decorations around the city include twinkling lights and festive banners which can be found in many of the city’s parks and gardens.
Christmas markets are also a popular attraction during the festive season in Sydney. These markets feature a range of handmade goods, food and entertainment. They are great places to find unique Christmas gifts, and they often feature carolers and festive music to get you in the holiday spirit.
Overall, these cities are just a few examples of the many places around the world that truly embrace the holiday spirit during the Christmas season. Whether it’s shopping at a Christmas market, enjoying festive lights and decorations, or participating in traditional holiday events and activities, these cities offer something for everyone during the most wonderful time of the year.
Urban Design Lab
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