Christmas is always exciting, but there’s something about Christmas this year that makes it more exciting than ever. Government restrictions will be lifted, families will be reunited, presents will be opened – it’s enough to bring a tear to the eye.

We really deserve Christmas this year, and the warm-up to Christmas is half the fun. From Christmas lights to festive markets, here are our top 5 things to do in London to get you feeling festive this weekend:

Carnaby Christmas Light Installation

Image: Campaign

Every year, Carnaby Street pulls it out the bag with its light installation, partnering with epic charities to bedazzle onlookers. Last year, we were presented with magical sea-creatures from the ocean conservation Charity, Project ZERO. This year, Choose Love takes the stage, a charity providing Refugees with everything from boats, to clothes, to legal advice. Their mission to put love into action around the world is evident in the beautiful, beaming purple light display. This glistening beacon of kindness and hope is well worth a visit in these uncertain times.

Hackney Christmas Market

Image: The List

Located in the iconic Bohemia Place, Hackney Christmas Market is the brimming with Christmas cheer. Handmade Christmas decorations and gifts? Tick. Tasty street food with vegan options? Tick. Mulled wine and cider? Tick. Pets welcome? Tick. Nearby, you’ll also find plenty of vintage clothes shops to get lost in and some rustic pubs to settle in at (We’d recommend Pub On The Park). Perfect for a Sunday day out? We think so.

Tate Britain’s Winter Commission

Image: Londonontheinside

Tate Britain’s winter light installation, remembering a brave new world, is bright, mesmerising and thought-provoking. Radical feminist artist, Chila Kumari Singh Burman, has transformed the façade of the gallery with swirling lights and neon colour. Intentionally coinciding with Diwali, the Festival of Light; the lights celebrate new beginnings and the triumph of light over darkness. Packed with playful intricacies and symbolism, this installation is well worth a visit.

Castle Square Festivities

Looking for some Christmas fun for all the family? Look no further than Castle Square’s festive celebrations. You’ll get the opportunity to visit Santa and his grotto (from a safe distance, of course) and gawk at the square’s fabulous Christmas tree. Just 5 minute’s walk from Elephant and Castle station, Castle Square is home to 26 local traders who’ve got you covered with everything from Christmas presents to beauty treatments to tasty Christmas bites. Find out more here.

Selfridges Christmas Market

Image: Selfridges

Selfridges are pushing the boat out this year with their first ever open-air Christmas market, devised by the curators of Street Feast. Tucked away round the back of Selfridges in the quaint Edward Mews; you can find Christmas wreaths, decorations, gifts and a helter skelter – because why not? Whether you want to shop until you drop, stuff your face with a giant wheel of cheese or let out some 2020 screams on the fairground rides – Edward Mews is your one-stop shop this Christmas.

What’s giving you the festive feels? Let us know in the comments. If you like our blog, you’ll love our Instagram.