As well as playing festive tunes, including the overture to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, the set list at last Thursday’s event included a nod to some of the music performed at Wembley Stadium, including Taylor Swift’s Christmas Tree Farm.
More than a thousand concertgoers saw the 45-piece Orchestra perform for just £5 at their first major public performance since moving to a new headquarters in Wembley Park.
The festive fun continues over the coming weeks with visitors to the pedestrianised neighbourhood enjoying epic light displays along Olympic Way and Wembley Park Boulevard.
Sights to look out for include a 20ft gingerbread arch, a 50ft Christmas tree and three original K6 red phone boxes outside the OVO Wembley Arena transformed into a multicoloured glowing installation.
Elsewhere there’s the return of the ‘From Saint to Santa’ exhibition on outdoor boards. This fascinating display explores the history and evolution of Father Christmas, tracing his origins through the ages.
There’s also a festive market featuring 50 stalls selling seasonal treats, artisan products and gifts alongside free live music on the Market Square every weekend in December.
Shoppers can enjoy the Sound of Christmas including brass ensembles from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama performing Christmas classics and on December 11 there’s a free Christmas carol service taking place at BOXPARK Wembley.
BOXPARK Wembley is also hosting film screenings of classics, including The Polar Express, Home Alone and Elf, so visitors can immerse themselves in some Christmas movie magic.
And families are invited to the Ultimate Kids’ Christmas Party, an afternoon of free workshops and crafts run in collaboration with resident youth arts charity Fresh Arts on December 6.
Paying events include a star-studded RnB Xmas Ball on December 7 at the OVO Arena featuring superstars Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Joe, Dru Hill and special guests.
And Punchdrunk Enrichment is presenting Fireside Tales, its magical immersive storytelling show for ages 7 to 11 from December 6 until January 4.
Every weekend and from December 22-24 there’s a free Santa’s Grotto running at the London Designer Outlet alongside a fun interactive challenge where visitors can earn a Lindt treat while exploring the centre.
Wembley Park was recently named by The Sunday Times as one of the Best Places to live for 2025.
Restaurants and food traders are also offering seasonal menus and specials such as Christmas hamper sessions and baking workshops at Bread Ahead Bakery School.
Claudio Giambrone, head of cultural programming, Wembley Park, said: “There’s something for everyone in Wembley Park this winter. Music, art, gastronomy and world-class culture… whatever’s on your wish list of things to experience this Christmas, you’ll find it here.”
Further details at www.wembleypark.com/christmas
