Christmas Tree Lighting in Dubai: Free festive events to attend with kids this weekend
Many properties are setting up ‘winter wonderlands’ and cozy markets for visitors
Dubai: Enjoy a festive evening out with family and friends at one, or more, of these festive events being held across the UAE. Decked-up Christmas trees will be lit up, accompanied by caroling choirs and all the joyful trimmings of the season, including hot chocolate and other goodies.
Most of these are free and will make for a fun evening for children and adults alike. However, make sure you call ahead and reserve spots at the hotel events as they need guest counts for the night.
Wednesday, December 6
Sheraton Mall of Emirates
The tree at this property is as premium it gets with Elizabeth Arden decorations. Carol singers will bring the festive vibe as the tree’s lights switch on heralding the festive month. Guests will enjoy free snacks and a complimentary mulled grape drink. The event will be from 6pm to 7pm.
Cost: Free
Thursday, December 7
Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall will hold annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Festival Bay on Thursday at 7pm. The free event will be a hit with children with a brand-new IMAGINE light and laser show, Santa’s cosy log cabin, the Ice Maze where the Snow Queen awaits, Winnie the Pooh’s Enchanted Festive Forest, the Valley of the Lights, an Upside-Down Festive Tavern, and more. The venue’s Eats Square will feature festive treats including freshly baked mince pies, cupcakes, cookies, turkey kebabs, and more.
Cost: Free
Friday, December 8
Grand Millennium Dubai
This property welcomes guests to gaze on as the tree, located in the hotel lobby, gets its lights switched on. To add to the occasion, attendees will be able to enjoy a selection of tasty canapes, scintillating mocktails, hot grape, and creamy eggnog while a Christmas choir keeps the mood upbeat with some melodic tunes and Santa makes a surprise visit bringing a range of presents for the younger guests. The event will be from 6pm to 7pm.
Cost: Free
FORM Hotel Dubai
As the property’s tree lights up, guests will be serenaded with carols. Santa Claus will be available for photos and will be giving away a wonderful gift to the kids. The ceremony will start at 6pm, and make sure you call ahead and let them know you’re coming.
Cost: Free
Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai
Visitors here can enjoy a complimentary glass of tasty, mulled grape alongside some smoked salmon with cream cheese or a slice of stollen while the younger guests can sip on a flavourful hot chocolate during the lighting ceremony. A special jolly North Pole guest might make a surprise visit, so younger guests can expect some fun and a few gifts. The program starts at 5pm.
Cost: Only for hotel guests
Swissotel Ghurair
A 20-feet Christmas Tree in the lobby is set to light up with festive decoration and the beautiful tunes of the hotel choir. Guests can expect delicious pass-around of canapés and festive beverages, an access to the “Little Explorers” Play Area, and a gingerbread house-making workshop. The event will be from 6pm and is open to paying guests of the LINDT Festive Afternoon Tea and gingerbread house making experience.
Cost: Paid (Open to paying guests of LINDT Festive Afternoon Tea and gingerbread house making)