An annual tradition, Christmas light displays in Europe are a big deal. Decked out in their finest Christmas garb, cities throughout the continent create an enchanting light show beyond simple illumination. Ancient squares turn into dazzling wonderlands, and cobblestone lanes light up with festive happiness. If you’re looking for the most fascinating Christmas light displays, these locations will not only brighten your holidays but will do so spectacularly.
Regent Street In London, England
Regent Street is famous for its magnificent Christmas lights, regarded as some of the best in Europe. The street, created by architect John Nash in 1819, is one of London’s most recognizable streets. The Grade II listed façade reflects notable architecture, and the Christmas lights add a festive element to this historical setting, creating a one-of-a-kind union of tradition and celebration.
The yearly light display, known as “The Spirit of Christmas,” is a highlight of downtown London. The switch-on event is a much-anticipated occasion that marks the start of the festive season in London. Every day, the lights glow from early evening on a timer, accompanied by festive ideas and events that draw locals and tourists.
Brussels by Lights – Belgium
One of Europe’s top Christmas light shows, Brussels by Lights, turns the Belgian capital into a glowing extravaganza every year. The event spans 168 streets in Brussels, with eight additional ones added in 2023, guaranteeing that visitors may enjoy the festive lights across the city. Brussels is illuminated from the center to Neder-Over-Heembeek, via Haren and Laeken.
Brussels by Lights also presents fresh light works in various shapes and sizes, ranging from snowflakes and geometric jellyfish to snowmen. Not only that, but the show also provides an interactive trail that mixes digital and physical art. The festival incorporates cultural components such as video mapping at the ‘Maison de la Création’ in Laeken, Haren, and Neder-Over-Heembeek.
Colmar Christmas Lights – France
Next is Colmar, a lovely town that appears to have emerged from a fairy tale, especially during Christmas. The old town is lit up and adorned to create a magnificent environment that blends with the town’s history. The lights cast a relaxing atmosphere over Colmar’s center. This display transforms it into an open-air theater where the festive spirit envelops the town’s heart.
Colmar’s pedestrian-only town center contains several architectural gems from the Middle Ages to the nineteenth century, including monuments, churches, museums, and lanes. Christmas lights also adorn the Maison Pfister, the Kofhus, the Unterlinden Museum, Little Venice, the House of the Heads, and the Saint Martin Collegiate church.