The intoxicating aroma of roasted chestnuts and soft, velvety hot chocolate, coated with decadent sugary delights that warms you from the cold like a warm knitted blanket whilst the joyful symphony of carolers echoes through the night.
Welcome to a winter wonderland.
This year Kingston-upon-Thames is committed to spreading the joy of Christmas to all of its residents.
The Decorations
Exquisitely intricate festive lights have been hung up in the heart of the borough, casting a soft glowing light upon all of its inhabitants, beckoning both residents and visitors into Kingston despite the wintry weather.
Saanvi Gupta, 15, a regular shopper in the borough, describes how she " spends a very long time admiring the lights with my friends and family- they really are extraordinary!"
There are also two tremendous Christmas trees adorned with twinkling fairy lights that illuminate glistening baubles that catch the light, reflecting hues of red and gold creating an enchanting spectacle.
Amidst these magnificent decorations, life-size nutcracker statues stand proudly, saluting the arrival of Christmas and the festive season.
However, the most remarkable sight is the over 10 m tall wire statue of a reindeer interwoven with silvery sparkling lights.
In the centre of the town centre, a truly impressive and grand illuminated 'Kingston' sign captures the essence of the celebrations and the sense of community that the festive season brings.
The Christmas Markets
At the heart of Kingston’s Christmas celebration are not one but two absolutely amazing Christmas markets that truly ignite the Christmas spirit and festive cheer within all those visiting them.
It is a well-known fact that these Christmas markets are superb, Yoshita Kardile, 14, a resident of the borough, shares her excitement:
“I really love the food at the market, there's so many choices! Wandering through all the stalls and discovering the wide variety of items people have for sale is so much fun. But what I love the most is the atmosphere - it's always wonderful!”
These markets are a core part of the holiday season: they are perfect family-friendly havens, filled to the brim with activities and mouth watering delicacies.
One market, located in front of the All Saints Church, focuses on ornate decorations and handcrafted items made in the spirit of Christmas; the other, located close to the Guildhall, has a wide array of artisanal treats and seasonal goods, making it the perfect festive hub.
One of the standout features of this year's festivities is the live music performances that promise to uplift spirits and enhance the vibrant mood, creating unforgettable experiences.
As the holidays progress this will become one of the most visited areas, with streets bustling as people desperately search for last-minute handmade gifts.
Embrace the magic of Christmas in Kingston-upon-Thames this celebratory season, where every corner is bursting with festivities!
