Christmas is one of the most festive times in Kolkata, which tops the list of cities in India where holiday celebrations are such a phenomenon. There’s no mistaking where the City of Joy is at Christmas time, as it is ablaze with glittering lights, festive tunes, rock songs, delectable cuisine, gorgeous trees, people in good spirits, and the scent of fruit cake and pastries. Kolkata’s Christmas celebrations are lavish, since not just Christians, but people from all walks of life join in the celebrations, offering prayers and singing songs at midnight mass in the churches. Hotels in Kolkata are generally packed with tourists from all over the country during Christmas, as visitors are keen to experience the beauty and friendly vibe this place has to offer. In case you are planning a trip to this city of poets and Rabindra sangeet, check out the article to learn more about things that you can accomplish during your entire stay.
Visit Bow Bazaar
A cobblestoned alley located between Bow Bazaar Police Station and Hare Street is bordered by former red brick houses. Originally constructed as barracks for 1st World War troops, these structures were eventually repurposed as homes for Anglo Indians residing in pre-independent Kolkata, who have remained an important part of the city’s cultural fabric since the 1800s.
The Bow Barracks takes on an exceptionally cheerful air during the Christmas season, and it becomes a popular destination for festival lovers. Homemade meatloaf, wines, and cakes are all quite famous. The 23rd and 24th are when residents set up their stalls, transforming the area into a festive gathering place.
Get cakes from Nahoum’s Bakery and Beckbagan Row
Nahoum’s Bakery is located in Kolkata’s famed New Market district. Since 1902, it has been the longest-running and most popular Jewish bakery in the world. Bengalis love its Christmas cake varieties, such as the Light Plum Cake, Rich Fruit Cake, Special Fruit Cake, Margie Pan, and Plain Cake. The bakery’s winter crowds are incredible, around Christmas, and in case you want to experience Calcutta’s authentic Christmas vibe with a dash of Hanukkah, Nahoum’s is the appropriate spot.
Also, take a stroll along Beckbagan Row, a tiny lane dotted with shanties. During the Christmas season, Beckbagan comes alive with those booths, as Muslim bakers offer some of the most delectable pastries. These shanties aren’t as elegant or well-known as Flury’s or Nahoum’s. However, the regulars of Kolkata, on the other hand, swear by this spot.
Midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral
St Paul’s Cathedral, built back in 1847, is based after Canterbury Cathedral, which was the first Anglican Church outside of Britain. The place hosts a lovely midnight prayer on Christmas Eve. If you arrive late for mass, take a glance around the church and experience the lovely lighting, beautiful decorations, and happy youngsters singing songs.
Experience the ambience of Park Street
From December 20 through the end of the year, Park Street is decked up for the holidays. Thousands of individuals with different religious origins assemble here to enjoy a fun-filled evening with their friends and family. Apart from the beautiful lightings and decor, delicious food and live music are other sources of entertainment that the visitors can enjoy. Around Christmas, Park Street transforms into a fun zone for the festive crowds.
People in the lineups at Flury’s, Trincas and Moulin Rouge prepare to stand all night, desiring lavish Christmas dishes that include turkey, roast duck, pies and beef sticks, while wearing Santa caps and weird glasses. On December 25, the primary attraction is a 2 hr long Christmas Parade.
Attend Christmas Parties in Kolkata
It’s the holiday season, which means Christmas parties are a necessity! There are several bars and clubs that organise large events for you to enjoy. The event managers make sure that both artists and audiences have the greatest possible experience. You can eat, drink, and socialize while swaying to music and dancing like no one is looking. People of Kolkata unwind at these parties and all you need to do is just join them and have some fun celebrating Christmas.
Visit the Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial, which was built in the early twentieth century in honour of Queen Victoria, is today a popular tourist attraction in Kolkata. The area is popular among both young and old people as a perfect outing spot with family and loved ones. The architectural marvel, also houses a museum inside, depicting a variety of historical antiques from different parts of the world. The Victoria Memorial attracts a large number of visitors every year. The hours of entry are 10 am to 5 pm.
These are some of the top things to do in Kolkata during Christmas Eve. So what are you waiting for hurry up, plan a visit to this heritage city this Christmas and make the most out of your winter holidays.
