What festival is celebrated in the month of December?

December is a crazy, full month when it comes to festivals. While Christmas, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ on the 25th, is undeniably one of the most prominent events in December, the month also hosts other cultural and traditional celebrations. Some of these include Hogmanay in Scotland which heralds the New Year, and the Dongzhi Festival in China that marks the winter solstice. All in all, December is a great time of global festivities.

What are the best holiday festivals?

When you think of standout holiday festivals, Christmas often takes the limelight as it's celebrated by many around the world. Hogmanay in Scotland is all about ringing in the New Year with jubilation, and there's also bonfires in Brighton and lights in Tokyo that form part of the December international events.

Which are the best music festivals in December?

December offers plenty of music festivals across different genres. Rampage in Europe is known for its electrifying drum & bass and dubstep beats. On the other side of the world, the SnowGlobe Music Festival in the US blends EDM, hip-hop, and indie rock amidst a snowy backdrop. For those inclined towards Afrobeats, dancehall, bashment, and hip-hop, Afro Nation is a crowd-puller.

Are there EDM festivals in December?

December sees a surge in EDM (Electronic Dance Music) festivals, especially as the countdown to New Year begins. The SnowGlobe Music Festival is a notable one in this category. When it comes to EDM festivals in December in the UK, there are lots of club nights and events featuring top EDM acts. On a global scale, destinations like Bali host the Djakarta Warehouse Project, celebrated as one of Asia's premier dance music festivals. For the latest EDM action, a glance at festival calendars and local listings would be quite enlightening.

Here are the best festivals in December for your festival calendar. If you want something to look forward to in winter, these are the December festivals for you.

December festivals are obviously among the coolest of the year, in all senses. Don’t retire to the fire for fear of a chill, get out there and make the most of the mulled wine and hot cider opportunities.

The festive feel and impending New Year makes this month one of the best for exploring new cities and events, so get the thermals on and get out there for a last go at making this year the best one yet. Here are some of the best festivals in December for you to enjoy around the world.

Best Festivals in December

These annual December celebrations offer a unique insight into cultures around the world. Add these festivals December to your must do list.

1. Fête des Lumières, Lyon, France

7th – 10th December 2023

This one is all about Mary. As in Jesus’s mum.

The Virgin Mary is Lyon’s beloved saviour and Lyon honours her each year with the great Fête des Lumières. The four-day event is a testimony to what Mary means to the city – many believe it was she that saved them from destruction when the city was riddled with the plague.

Ever since those dark days of the 1800s, the people of Lyon have taken the time to show their appreciation with light and colour. From the 8^th to 11^th of December this year 2022, every house puts candles in their windows to honour her but, it’s the lighting up of the Basilica of Fourvière and the Place des Terreaux light show that truly wow.

This looks like one of the most amazing festivals in December there is. I’ve always wanted to go!