The festive season is finally here! As much as Christmas is about togetherness, joy, and family, it goes without saying that the most important element of the season is a well-decorated Christmas tree. A whole lot of planning goes into achieving the perfect tree, and sometimes inspiration from some of the city’s best is exactly what we need. So, we’ve rounded up the most exciting tree lighting events at Dubai’s top venues to get you in the festive spirit.

1. Steigenberger Hotel

Steigenberger in Business Bay will kick Christmas off today with a spectacular tree lighting. The hotel will light up their pool and lounge area with the neon lights from the tree, and guests can expect Christmas carols by the German International School Dubai choir as well as food and beverages. A little bird also told me that Santa might be there to take gift requests.

Info: Steigenberger Hotel, Business Bay. 6pm onwards, Wednesday December 4. Free attendance. Tel: (04) 369 0000

2. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates

Kempinski will welcome visitors for the lighting event from 6pm-7pm this Thursday December 5. Make sure you head down early so you get a good viewing of the elaborate Christmas décor.

Info: Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Barsha. 5.30pm to 6.30pm, Thursday December 5. Free attendance. Tel: (04) 341 0000. 

3. Fairmont, The Palm

Fairmont is continuing their annual tree lighting tradition that welcomes almost 1000 spectators. The tree lighting will take place in the lobby of the hotel, and you’ll be treated to a live performance by the children’s choir from Dubai Performing Arts singing classic Christmas carols. There will also be gingerbread house making for the little ones while the adults can help themselves to some festive beverages. Just make sure you’re in position for the lighting at 6pm.

Info: Fairmont The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. 5pm to 7pm, Monday December 9. Free attendance. Tel: (04) 457 3457.

4. Movenpick, Ibn Battuta

Al Bahou restaurant will welcome visitors for the beautiful tree lighting event tomorrow from 6:30pm -7:30pm. Come celebrate the holiday season and sing along to traditional Christmas carols.

Info: Al Bahou, Movenpick Ibn Battuta Gate. 6.30pm to 7.30pm, Thursday December 5. Free attendance, , Tel: (04) 444 0000.

5. The Irish Village

The annual tree lighting event in The Irish Village is one of the biggest lighting events in the city. As part of the festivities, there’ll be choirs, festive eats and, of course, a spectacular (HUGE) sparkling tree.

Info: Irish Village, Garhoud, Dubai. 7pm to 10pm, Wednesday December 11. Tel:  (04) 282 4750, theirishvillage.com