MUSCAT : Christmas is right around the corner, and the winter festivities have already begun in many parts of the world. In some cities, the celebration of this festival of joy and gift-giving has achieved legendary status globally over the years. Here is a list of the most breathtaking Christmas celebrations across the globe.

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland

Lapland has become almost synonymous with Christmas and Santa Claus. The town of Rovaniemi in Lapland is known as “the official hometown of Santa Claus,” where visitors can meet St. Nick himself at the charming Santa Claus Village, visit the post office, go to elf school at SantaPark, and more!

The Vatican, Italy

The holiest city of Christianity is beautiful all year round, but Christmas celebrations make this city absolutely magical. The celebrations attract thousands of visitors every year, with the Midnight Mass in St Peter’s Basilica being an unforgettable attraction. 

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin during Christmas offers a lot of tourist activities. The most attractive of the festivities is the 12 Days of Christmas Market at the Docklands, with lots of pantomimes, Christmas lights, and seasonal cheers, along with an elf workshop for kids. A fun-filled family Christmas destination indeed!

New York City, USA

One of the grandest and most beautiful Christmas celebrations in the world, the Christmas celebrations and decorations in front of the Empire State Building have been central to a lot of films, both Hollywood and otherwise. With the tallest Christmas tree of the world at the Rockefeller Center and the ice skating rink beneath it, along with beautiful decorations all over the city, New York truly is a sight to behold during the holiday season.

Hong Kong, China

This amazing East Asian city is perhaps the most beautiful Christmas destination on the continent. With beautifully decked-up shop fronts, lights hanging from the skyscrapers, and Christmas music blasting from speakers all around the city, Hong Kong is perhaps the prettiest during Christmas festivities.

Philippines

The celebrations in the Phillippines are the longest Christmas celebrations in the world. The Philippines is said to celebrate Christmas for the longest duration in the world, a result of the country’s history, religion, and proclivity to party.

Kolkata, India

This metropolitan city in eastern India is known for its elaborate Christmas celebrations. Park Street, in Kolkata, is rich in its Christian and Anglo heritage and is thus the hub of Christmas celebrations. The Christmas Carnival on Park Street is one of the major annual festivals of the city and attracts a sea of visitors, both local and foreign.