Christmas is here, and this joyous festival is not limited to abroad. India celebrates Christmas with equal pomp and fervour, making it feel just as grand. From lively parties and festive markets to carols and themed events, Indian cities leave no stone unturned to welcome Santa. Forget London and New York, these 18 Indian cities celebrate Christmas with so much energy and cheer that you may never feel the need to step out of the country for this festive season!
18 Best Cities To Celebrate Christmas In India
1. Shillong
Almost half the population here follow Christianity. It’s no surprise then that Christmas is the biggest affair of all. A grand and authentic celebration engulfs the city with decorations, food and shopping. Weeks of preparation bring a happy cloud that protects the people from bad vibes during Christmas. Music and hospitality are key traits of the festive spirit in Shillong.
2. Kerala
A whopping 19% of the state’s population is Christian. That means grand celebrations across the state. Dry fruit Christmas cakes are very popular gifts. They’re available at every other bakery, too. Many believers fast from the beginning of the month until Christmas Day. People decorate their homes with lanterns and Christmas trees. A unique feature of the celebrations here is the local tradition of decorating one’s house with a crib. Midnight Masses are the high point of their celebrations.
3. Goa
There are 400 churches in Goa! The whole city is abuzz with church services. People are in high spirits, and the food represents their enthusiasm. Roast turkey, pork sorpotel and an assortment of grilled seafood and most importantly, Goa’s famous dessert Bebinca are all available everywhere. You can go visit one of the iconic Portuguese churches or just lie back at a beach and watch the fireworks.
Also Read: From Flea Markets To Carnivals: 10 Best Christmas Events Across India You Must Attend This Year
4. Pondicherry
Christmas markets in Pondicherry welcome tourists every year. Lanterns, local food, pretty tinsels, and stars are some of the popular things that people buy there. The Marche de Noel or Christmas market is a must-visit at that time of year. Beach bums can spend all day and all night enjoying the year’s best weather for beaches!
5. Mumbai
Christmas is a public holiday that the locals make the most of. Tiny Christmas trees are everywhere with people in the festive spirit. Mumbai is all about the vibe, and the people never fail on that. Restaurants across the city have brunches and dinners for the special day. Clubs also celebrate with grand parties.
6. Bengaluru
The week leading to Christmas slowly begins to make room for fairy lights, Christmas decorations and lanterns all around Bengaluru. The celebrations don’t end on Christmas Day here. In fact, it is the day after Christmas that brings families closer. Relatives visit one another with gifts to celebrate Boxing Day with some family time.
7. Daman and Diu
The coastal town of Daman and the small island of Diu together form on Union Territory. This place used to be a Portuguese colony and is home to a beautiful Baroque structure from that time. St. Paul’s Church hosts a Midnight Mass like no other every year. Cultural shows and Corrindinho Portuguese dance forms shine brighter than all their decorations and lights during the Christmas season.
8. Chennai
Vibrant, quirky and warm, Christmas in Chennai is a unique experience. Celebrating Christmas in hot weather is an experience of its own. Locals spend the day with family. Relatives from all over the country generally come back to their hometown because of the convenient timing of Christmas break. The places are a little more crowded than usual due to this, but every place is crowded more than usual during Christmas!
9. Delhi
If you live in Delhi, rejoice. It is one of the best cities in India to celebrate Christmas. The capital offers a vibrant mix of festive parties, Christmas markets, pop-ups, and themed events across the city. Several cafes transform themselves into winter wonderlands with hot cocoa mugs and gingerbread cookies. Delhi is also home to many churches, which makes it a top spot in India for Christmas celebrations.
Also Read: 10 Iconic European Churches That Transform Into Pure Magic During Christmas
10. Kolkata
Kolkata might just be an excellent place to celebrate Christmas. Yes, the city is known for Durga Puja, but December brings a whole new charm. Park Street is a must-visit and comes alive with sparkling lights and red-and-gold decorations. St. Paul’s Cathedral fills the air with Christmas carols, while workshops, markets, and festive events keep the celebrations going across the city
11. Aizawl
Aizawl in Mizoram is a great option if you want a calm Christmas holiday. The city offers a peaceful alternative to loud parties in other parts of India. The weather feels especially pleasant during winter, making the festive season even better. You can visit Christmas markets, attend church services, and soak in the quiet charm of the city.
12. Pune
Pune is another Indian city worth considering for Christmas celebrations. The city hosts themed parties, Christmas markets, and cultural events at malls and public spaces. Keep an eye out for Christmas carnivals selling handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and seasonal treats.
13. Guwahati
Guwahati may surprise you as a Christmas destination. The city glows with fairy lights across streets and neighbourhoods. You can hear carols echoing in the evenings and enjoy generous slices of plum cake from local bakeries. Guwahati truly comes alive with Christmas celebrations.
14. Shimla
Shimla is one of the best Indian cities to celebrate Christmas. Winter turns the hill town into a festive fairytale with snow, lights, markets, and carols. Its colonial charm adds to the experience. Mall Road is beautifully decorated, cafes host live music, and Christ Church fills up with carol services during the season.
15. Hyderabad
Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Hyderabad. The city is decorated with beautiful festive lights and decorations. Churches welcome visitors looking for peace during the season. You can also attend Christmas carnivals, parties, and special events. The pleasant winter weather is an added bonus.
16. Dehradun
Dehradun brings cosy winter vibes during Christmas. Hotels, cafes, and restaurants host bonfires and live music. It is perfect if you want a break from crowded cities. Mussoorie is just a short drive away, offering fresh air and stunning mountain views for Christmas and the New Year.
17. Gangtok
Gangtok in Sikkim is ideal for celebrating both Christmas and New Year. Local communities organise winter carnivals with cultural shows, handicraft stalls, and street performances. The city feels magical during the season, especially if you stay at a cosy cottage-style homestay.
18. Kohima
Kohima is an underrated Indian city for Christmas celebrations. The city focuses on community-led festivities with night carnivals, bonfire feasts, and carol singing. You can stop by local homes for Christmas cakes and tea or visit historic churches. It offers a warm and meaningful festive experience.
Also Read: 18 Home Bakers In Mumbai To Order From This Christmas To Get That Extra Dose Of Merry
So, which of these Indian cities are you planning to celebrate Christmas this year?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Josephdesousa and Shimla, Wikipedia/ ShashankSharma2511
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