Christmas Carols in London 2024-2025

One of the best ways to feel warm and fuzzy this holiday season is by listening to choirs chanting beautiful Christmas carols. Throughout December, London hosts numerous Christmas carol concerts in concert halls, churches, and even outdoors. These deeply moving songs celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Regardless of your creed, such a concert will likely touch your heart. Just relax and let the holiday cheer fill you up.

Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall (December 3–31, 2024)

Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall in London offers a series of festive concerts. Audiences can enjoy John Rutter’s Christmas Celebration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on December 5, Jamie Cullum's The Pianoman at Christmas on December 6, and Home Alone in Concert with a live orchestra on December 7. From December 14 to 24, there will be sing-along Carols at the Royal Albert Hall. The season concludes with The Nutcracker by the Birmingham Royal Ballet from December 29 to 31. Each event promises to bring holiday cheer and joy to attendees.

Christmas at Westminster Abbey (December 7–24, 2024)

Christmas at Westminster Abbey highlights include the Christmas Family Day on December 7 from 10 am to 1 pm in the Chapter House, and the Christmas Concert on December 20. The Abbey also hosts Services of Lessons and Carols on December 23 and 24 and the First Eucharist of Christmas (Midnight Mass) on December 24 at 11 pm. On Christmas Day, visitors can attend Sung Eucharist at 10:30 am and Evensong at 3 pm. These events are free to the public, though booking is required.

A Carol Service Hosted by the Princess of Wales

The Princess of Wales will host the annual Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 6, 2024, starting at 7:30 pm. This marks the fourth year of the festive tradition, which began in 2021 when Catherine surprised viewers with a piano performance alongside Scottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker. Focused on love and empathy during challenging times, the event will feature performances by the Westminster Abbey choir and special guests like Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter. It will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve at 7:30 pm.

Christmas Concert (Friday, December 20, 2024)

On December 20 from 7 pm to 8:20 pm the Choir of Westminster Abbey presents a captivating program featuring festive choral works, beloved carols, and seasonal readings. The centerpiece of the concert is Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, performed by the Abbey Choristers and harpist Cecilia Sultana De Maria. Tickets range from £15 to £47.

Carol Singing in Trafalgar Square (December 23–24, 2024)

Each December, Norway gifts London a magnificent Christmas tree for Trafalgar Square as a gesture of gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II. The Greater London Authority (GLA) organizes carol singing sessions at the base of this iconic tree, creating a warm and intimate festive atmosphere. To maintain a traditional caroling experience, these sessions take place without the use of PA systems or stages, allowing the natural harmony of voices to resonate freely.

Scheduled for December 23 from 6 pm to 9 pm and December 24 from 4 pm to 7 pm, these events invite both singers and audiences to gather and celebrate the holiday spirit in one of London’s most famous locations.

Christmas Concerts at Cadogan Hall (December, 2024)

The festive season at Cadogan Hall offers a variety of enchanting Christmas events. Highlights include "West End Does: Christmas in Oz" on December 1, featuring carols and songs from Oz-themed shows, and "The Choir with No Name’s Big Christmas Singalong" on December 2, spreading festive cheer with classic carols. Don't miss "The Kingdom Choir's A Kingdom Christmas" on December 6, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra's "Christmas Cracker" on December 7. Prices for these events range from £15 to £47, offering something magical for everyone this holiday season.

Christmas at Barbican Centre

The Barbican Centre celebrates the festive season with a captivating lineup of Christmas events. Highlights include A Gospel Christmas with Flames Collective on December 7 at 7:30 pm, and Christmas with King's College Choir featuring the Crouch End Festival Chorus on December 20 at 7:30 pm. On December 22, join Jonathan Cohen and Louise Dearman for a Christmas Carol Singalong, and on December 23, enjoy The Big Christmas Party at 2:30 pm, featuring festive pop hits and traditional favorites. Experience the magic of Candlelit Carols on December 21 at 2:30 pm, in an evocative candle-lit setting. Tickets for these events range from £15 to £47.

Advent and Christmas at St. Paul’s Cathedral (December 23–24, 2024)

Experience Advent and Christmas at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the awe-inspiring architecture provides a spiritual backdrop for meaningful services and carol concerts. Celebrate the birth of Jesus through scripture readings and the beautiful carols of the Choir. Highlights include the Christmas Carol Service on December 23 and 24, and the Midnight Eucharist on December 24 at 11:30 pm. Christmas Day features a Choral Eucharist at 11 am and a Festal Evensong at 3 pm. These events are free and open to all, though tickets are required for some services. Embrace the season's peace and joy at this historic cathedral.

Christmas with the Royal Ballet and Opera (December 17, 2024–January 22, 2025)

Celebrate Christmas with the Royal Ballet and Opera from December 17, 2024, to January 22, 2025. The festival includes enchanting performances such as "Cinderella," "La bohème," and "Hansel and Gretel," with tickets priced from £15 to £47. Enjoy festive cocktails and treats, a three-course Christmas menu at the Piazza Restaurant, and shop unique gifts at the Royal Ballet and Opera Christmas Shop. Experience the magic of ballet and opera with live performances, cinema screenings, and backstage tours. Prices for events and activities vary, offering something special for everyone this holiday season.