As the year gradually draws to an end, and a New Year hovers close, the chilly air reminds us that Christmas is just around the corner!

Kolkata, the hub of all celebrations, is known for being a gracious host when it comes to festivals – any and every festival – and of course, Christmas is no exception. The lights and decorations go up in the city from around mid-December, and a drive or a ride through Maidan, Park Street, or Esplanade at any time post-sunset will provide you with a magnificent view of the cosily lit city. You can come across the massive Santa Claus right in front of the Spiderman at Esplanade, or the giant Christmas tree cut-outs all around the streets of Park Street. Large structures of light loom overhead throughout the streets and are joined by other smaller ones at the sides flashing neon Santa-s, trees, bells and snowflakes.

The Jewish bakery, located at Esplanade, called Nahoum and Sons Private Limited Confectioners, is a must-visit during this time, and their Christmas cakes are to die for! A great place to spend your Christmas eve would be in the streets of Park Street, where you will witness thousands there along with you, donning Santa hats, or flashing Devil horns. Keep in mind the huge crowd you will come across, and plan your evening accordingly, where you will not mind waiting for some time for a seat in a restaurant. Churches such as St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the highly frequented places on Christmas Day in Kolkata. You can also find numerous concerts, plays, and fairs being organized all around the city during this time, with easily available tickets.

Overall, Kolkata during Christmas guarantees that you end your year with a bang, with the uplifted spirits of festivities and celebrations!