Winter is coming and so are the beautiful events. Almost every major global city is preparing to launch mega celebrations, complete with amazing lighting, Christmas trees, markets and more. If you’re planning to head to any of these cities, here is a list of winter activities worth noting (only a few out of innumerable options). 

From personal experience, it’s also important to find the right accommodation near city centres and other tourist hubs. This will ensure that you stay right at the heart of the action and in proximity to major winter events and celebrations. On that note, let’s dive in and check out some of these winter attractions. 

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Global Cities and Their Top Winter Events

From glittering lights to magical festivals, there’s plenty on offer across the world’s leading cities in winter. 

1. Winter Events in New York City, USA

NYC is a hub of the most exciting winter activities throughout the festive period. Here are some options worth considering: 

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The iconic Christmas tree has been an icon for the city for several decades. And it’s not just about the tree and decorations; you can also go skating at the rink here (60-minute sessions are included in general admission tickets) and even take a 2-hour guided experience. This VIP Rock Pass gives you access to the VIP Lounge, hidden rooftop gardens, the Beam Experience at the top and Skylift. 

Tip: The best views can be found at the outdoor and indoor observation decks, while you can also add the Santa Photo Experience to your ticket. 

• New Year’s Eve at Times Square

Undoubtedly one of the best outdoor winter activities that you can indulge in, it promises unlimited merriment. Personally speaking, the electric thrill of watching the ball drop amidst the festive vibe and glowing lights is hard to match! The ball comes down at 11:59 PM on the 31st of December and rests at midnight. 

Tip: The celebrations are free to attend (first-come, first-served), while you can book your spot at private parties in nearby hotels and restaurants. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Manhattan can be the best place to let you access these events as well as provide you the comfort that you deserve.

2. Winter Events in Paris, France 

Paris offers the best winter family activities, right from fireworks and glorious lighting to bustling markets. 

• Christmas Markets

There are tons of these festive markets dotting the city in the season. However, a personal pick is the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (Le Magie de Noel). It’s right beside the Louvre and is perhaps the biggest such market in the city. Ferris wheel and carnival rides are on offer here along with games, shopping, food and an ice skating rank. The market stays open till mid-January and starts sometime around November.  

Don’t miss the Notre Dame Christmas Market at the Square Viviani set against the cathedral’s towers. You can pick up crafts and gifts here along with enjoying musical performances. 

Tip: The Tuileries Garden market has 100+ chalets offering speciality food, gifts and crafts. Admission here is free and the nearest metro station is Concorde, Tuileries. The nearest metro to the Notre-Dame market is Saint Michel, Maubert-Mutualite. 

• Eiffel Tower Fireworks Display

Yes, heading to the Eiffel Tower on the 31st is a good idea, but not for the fireworks. Check out the light show here and then visit the Arc de Triomphe for the fireworks display instead. The light show is projected onto the iconic monument. 

Tip: You can also watch the fireworks at the Champs-Elysees which has its vantage points. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced apartments in Champs-Elysees or the Latin Quarter to enjoy and get the most out of your trip.

3. Winter Events in Toronto, Canada 

You can choose from innumerable Toronto winter activities if you’re planning a vacation in this charming Canadian city. 

• WinterFest

An annual fixture on the Toronto winter calendar, this festival comes with attractions like Snow Flake Lake ice skating, live shows, rides, amazing lighting and 50-foot Christmas trees. Daily tickets are available from $29.99 while you get 15% savings if you buy them online. VIP Igloo rentals are also available from $199 with seating for up to 8 guests. 

Tip: The event takes place outside the city in Vaughan and you can view the best Christmas trees at International Street. The event dates are 16th of November, 2024 to 4th January, 2025. 

• Cavalcade of Lights

It is arguably Toronto’s biggest winter festival and has been around since 1967. You’ll love the opening night gala with spectacular lights and live performances. There’s more in the form of festive installations and ice skating too. 

Tip: Don’t miss the location at Nathan Phillips Square and the Saturday night free skate parties. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Toronto which will give you easy accessibility to both the events.

4. Winter Events in Dubai, UAE

Dubai offers winter activities for tourists on a grand scale, involving everything from shopping and dining to performances and concerts. 

• Dubai Shopping Festival

This year’s mega shopping festival turns 30 and offers live performances, concerts, attractive shopping deals and a lot more. It is gearing up to be the biggest such shopping festival in the history of the Emirate, showcasing the best global brands across categories. Nightly fireworks round off the list. Also check out the opening concerts from 6th to 8th December, 2024 at the Coca-Cola Arena. 

Tip: The festival runs from 6th December, 2024 to 12th January, 2025 this year. Don’t miss the amazing shopping deals from 800+ local and global names. 

• Dubai Global Village

Season 29 of the popular Global Village is set to attract thousands of tourists to Dubai. The last season saw more than 40,000 entertainment attractions and shows and this year promises to be bigger and better. Expect stunt and street shows along with special performances for children here along with fabulous souvenirs across 3,500+ stores. 

Tip: The dates are from the 16th of October, 2024 to 11th May, 2025 and the timings are from 4 PM to 12 AM from Sunday to Wednesday. They are also 4 PM to 1 AM from Thursday to Saturday. Tuesdays are only for couples, families and ladies. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Downtown Dubai as it is located in the prime location of Dubai.

5. Winter Events in London, UK

There is no dearth of winter events in London¸ ranging from spectacular fireworks displays, afternoon tea and fine dining to vibrant Christmas markets and more. 

• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park transforms into a magical realm in the winter with its multiple attractions. These include the Magical Ice Kingdom with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and ice skating at the country’s biggest open-air rink. Other attractions include a real ice slide, a fabulous ice bar and performances like Justin’s Christmas Singalong.

Tip: If you spend £25 on rides, food, beverages and attractions, then your entry tickets will be free. The dates are from 21st November, 2024 to 5th January, 2025 between 10 AM and 10 PM (Monday to Sunday). You can also get the Santaland Unlimited Ride Pass with access to 12 rides and entry alike. 

• New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Thames

New Year fireworks are an annual attraction in London on the river Thames. This experience can be one of the most epic party nights as you ring in 2025. The stunning fireworks and illuminated attractions will make it an event worth cherishing for a lifetime! 

Tip: Tickets are usually around £20 per person and the first batch of tickets is expected to be available in October. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Westminster or Southbank is nearby to all the event location.

6. Winter Events in Singapore

Singapore is one of the best cities to choose for your annual winter vacation, offering multiple attractions and the best shopping and dining experiences. 

• Christmas on a Great Street

Organised by ORBA (Orchard Road Business Association), it offers a magical world for visitors. Enjoy transitioning colours, fabulous decorations and charming Christmas villages. There are also projections, music, rides and games available here. 

Tip: Take a walk from Tanglin to Dhoby Ghaut to take in the lighting and enjoy the outdoor giant projection on Orchard Road

• Marina Bay Countdown

Imagine a ticking countdown for the New Year against the glimmering city skyline with great performances. Sounds great doesn’t it? Personally speaking, it is a treat for photographers and revellers alike. 

Tip: You can easily access the Marina Bay area through the Bayfront MRT station. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Orchard Road or Marina Bay will provide to access to all events and also all prime tourist Locations.

7. Winter Events in Berlin, Germany 

Berlin is another happening city to enjoy some of the finest winter activities in Europe. 

• Christmas Markets

Berlin is probably the best place to discover some of the continent’s most charming Christmas markets. Check out the market at Alexanderplatz with its huge pyramid snack bar, ice rink and carousels. Drop by the Charlottenburg Castle market with its lighting and wooden huts as well. Other top choices include the Domane Dahlem Advent market and Lucia Christmas market at Kulturbrauerei. 

Tip: While on the topic of markets, take time out for the Charlottenburg Christmas Mile with its singing bears, dancing trees, pony rides and more. 

• New Year’s Eve at Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate hosts one huge party on New Year’s Eve with a fabulous open-air venue, entertainment, musical performances and stars in attendance. 

Tip: Find the venue at Pariser Platz, with the S+U Brandenburger Tor station being the nearest one (underground). 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in Mitte or near Alexanderplatz is the place that will provide you the comfort and let you enjoy the fullest.

8. Winter Events in Vienna, Austria

Vienna is at par with its leading global counterparts in terms of festive fun and frolic, albeit in a more classical manner. 

• Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz

While Austria offers tons of these markets, a personal favourite is the one at the Rathausplatz, i.e. in front of the town hall on the square. It is known as Christkindlmarket and offers close to 100 booths with fabulous displays like the Tree of Hearts. Interestingly, this market reportedly dates back to the late-18th century, shifting to this location in 1975. 

Tip: The dates for the market are from 16th November to 26th December, 2024, with longer opening times for the ice skating trails. Don’t forget to try traditional cuisine including pastries, sausages and Spatzle. 

• New Year’s Concert

Come 2025 and the Vienna Philharmonic will offer some of the world’s most iconic concerts for music lovers and enthusiasts. Maestro Riccardo Muti will be the baton-holder for the year. There’s also a New Year’s concert with Christian Thielemann to look forward to 

Tip: Ticket applications are usually taken in advance sometime around February so you’ll have to beat the rush early on. 

Recommended Accommodation: Serviced Apartments in the City Center 

Conclusion

As you can see, most global cities come alive with the choicest of winter activities, merriment, fireworks, lighting and delicious food at this time. In fact, winter is possibly the best time of the year to visit, if you’re into magical performances, events and unmissable spectacles. Whether you're a lover of Christmas markets, fireworks, or seasonal festivals, the world’s top destinations offer something for everyone. And while the excitement of winter events is reason enough to travel, ensuring you stay in the heart of the action is equally important.

So, put on that thinking cap, choose a destination, book your apartment and plan your trip today.