Itās that time of the year when the fragrance of freshly baked plum cake is lingering in the air, wine is served in plenty and decorations are adorned. Yes, itās Christmas the season of merry and miracles. How are you planning to bring in the festive season ? Is travelling on the cards? Every Indian city has its own unique way of celebrating Christmas. But, Kolkata has certain experiences that make Christmas all the more merrier. The city’s close association with the British Raj has left behind its unique flavor of Christmas cheer. The city is not called ‘The City of Joy’ for nothing. Howard Johnson Kolkata lists out Christmassey experiences to foster the festive spirit while in the city.
Carol Singing at St Paul’s Cathedral
What is Christmas without humming to some carols? Head to the midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral for an unforgettable experience. It is the first Episcopal Church of the world. On Christmas Day, the Cathedral is aglow with candles that are brought in by millions of its visitors. That’s not all, the entrance to the Church has a visual depiction of the birth of Jesus Christ. The decorations are a treat to the eyes, and admiring them never seems enough. Hence, most of the city’s locals begin their Christmas celebrations here.
Stroll around Kolkata’s Park Street
Park Street is all things Christmas and one must visit it. Beautified with fairy lights, the street comes alive like an open-air Christmas party. And it also stages performances by church groups, top-notch performers and Choir groups. While basking in the essence of Christmas there are numerous food stalls doling out the season’s delicacies. People don Santa caps, stroll around and make merry. Can there be a better way to celebrate Christmas?
Satiate your sweet cravings at Flurys
The city has an old-world charm about it, that’s remained intact with time. One of the classic examples is Flurys. Established by a Swiss Couple in the year 1972, the city’s first tea-room became a well-favored spot for the Britisher’s and Indians. As a result of its unchanged taste, people still flock to the place. During Christmas, the confectionery presents visitors with an offering of impeccably prepared Christmas pudding, fruit cake, and plain cake. Laborious efforts go into the preparation of the cake mix. Therefore, it is imperative to visit the place and sample the season’s specialties. But, make sure to book in advance, if you want to enjoy their sumptuous Christmas Lunch.
Travel back in time, at Bow Barracks
Bow Barracks is home to the Anglo- Indian community of the city. It’s completely cut away from the world, with its red stone bricks and green windows. On the occasion of Christmas, the place is kindled up with lanterns, colored up with streamers and festooned with balloons. It’s heart-warming to see the manner in which even the underprivileged sections of the society are included in the celebration. It has balls for the youth, games and pony rides for kids and another series of games for senior citizens. Apart from all of this, Bow Barracks is the only place in the world where Santa Claus’s sleigh is replaced by an auto-rickshaw. Riding around the locality, Santa distributes candies. All in all, there’s singing, dancing, and eating, when it comes to Christmas in Kolkata, but in its own unique flavor.
Shop till you drop, in New Market
Every festival comes with a never-ending shopping list. Christmas is no different. Hence, New Market is one-stop for all your shopping needs while in Kolkata. From footwear to Christmas decorations, this is the place to be. Traditional Christmas Cakes, Cold cuts to prepare for the feast, the perfectly sized tree and a vast assortment of Christmas Decorations. You can make all your purchases here, at an affordable price.
Xmas Eve Dinner at Howard Johnson Kolkata
Celebrate theĀ #christmasĀ spirit with all the traditionalĀ #xmasfavouritesĀ atĀ #NestĀ atĀ @hojokolkataĀ this evening, from 7.30 pm onwards. Join us for a memorableĀ #xmaseveĀ celebration with your loved ones. This is aĀ #diningeventĀ you dont want to miss thisĀ #festiveseasonĀ inĀ #Kolkata.
If all the above-mentioned experiences have left you wistfully longing to experience Christmas in Kolkata perhaps you should just do it. Apart from reveling in Christmas festivities, elevate your Kolkata Happiness quotient by booking directly your stay with us. And you’ll understand why our rooms are referred to as ‘Rooms of Joy.’
