As December rolls in, Christmas vibes take over—it’s the most loved year-end celebration for many. If you’re in Kerala this Christmas and wondering how to enjoy it to the fullest, don’t stress. We’ve got you covered. From lively streets and glowing churches to festive food and local traditions, this guide will help you pick the right places and experiences to make your Christmas in Kerala truly special.
Kerala Churches For Perfect Christmas Vibes
Christmas celebrations in Kerala often start in Fort Kochi at the Santa Cruz Basilica, where the church lights up beautifully. The hymns, prayers, and festive crowd make it a special place to visit. In Trivandrum, St. Mary’s Cathedral stays lively throughout December, with regular services and a warm festive mood.
In Alleppey, Edathua Church sees people from different faiths visiting during Christmas for prayers and blessings. Edappally Church is another must-visit, known for its grand decorations during the season. If you’re in Wayanad, Pallikunnu Church offers a peaceful Christmas experience surrounded by greenery and simple local celebrations.
Here’s The Foodies Favourites: Where & What To Eat
Christmas in Kerala is also about food, and every city brings its own flavour to the table. Kochi is known for Syrian Christian dishes, fresh seafood, and festive fusion meals at popular spots like Paragon. In Kozhikode, rich Moplah cuisine steals the spotlight with spicy biryanis and sweet treats like halwa.
If you’re in Kerala during Christmas, don’t miss the festive food! Try the rich Duck Roast cooked in coconut milk and spices, fluffy Appam with aromatic chicken or mutton stew, and the famous wine-soaked Plum Cake from local bakeries. Also, taste homemade grape or gooseberry wine served in many homes.
In Thiruvananthapuram, many hotels serve special Christmas feasts that mix local flavours with global favourites. Places like Hyatt Regency are popular for festive spreads. Gokulam Park is another great stop, especially for its Christmas brunch at Periyar Multicuisine Restaurant on December 25.
Also Read: Indian Railways To Run 138 Special Trains With 650 Trips To Manage Christmas & New Year’s Rush
Don’t Miss Out On Fun Events
One thing during Christmas you can’t miss out on is the Cochin Carnival. The Cochin Carnival is Fort Kochi’s big, fun way of welcoming the New Year. Held in the last week of December, it fills the streets with colourful parades, music, dance, and cultural shows. The highlight is the burning of the Pappanji, which marks saying goodbye to the old year and cheering for fresh beginnings on January 1.
Thrissur’s Christmas festival, Buon Natale, is a must-see celebration organised by the Archdiocese. With thousands of Santas and angels marching together, music, and charity drives, it’s fun and full of Christmas cheer. You really shouldn’t miss this one
Shopping For Christmas
For Christmas shopping in Kerala, visit festive spots in Kochi, Kottayam, and Thrissur, and explore stores like Feji’s Christmas Village. Don’t miss Art of Bloom in Kochi for imported décor. Major malls and city markets, including Trivandrum, offer plenty of festive goods. For the best Christmas stars and decorations, check out Broadway in Kochi or Chalai Market in Trivandrum, which look beautiful with red, white, and gold during the celebration.
So, this Christmas, if you’re in Kerala, we hope you add these places and activities to your to-do list!
Also Read: Secret Santa At Mumbai Airport! Air India Flyers Find Christmas Gifts Waiting At Baggage Belt
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikipedia & Website/ Kerala Tourism