On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you for Christmas?
The most wonderful time of the year is nigh and here at Time Out, we are ready to celebrate.
When it comes to Christmas in Bahrain, the celebrations are endless and with so many things to do, it can be hard to know where to start.
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From brilliant tree lighting events to dinners, here’s how to get into the festive spirit.
How to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain
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Christmas tree lightings
Dec 4: Hilton
It’s only official once the tree is up and lit. Hilton will welcome Christmas in Bahrain with a fabulous tree lighting ceremony featuring a lovely Nutcracker themed performance by the Multinational School Choir.
After the show, head straight to the lobby for some selfies at their gingerbread house.
Wed Dec 4, 6pm. Lamar Cafe and Lounge, Hilton Bahrain. @hiltonbahrain (3369 2013).
Dec 4: The K Hotel
Bringing in a lot of light and joy to this Christmas in Bahrain is also The K Hotel with carol singing, goodie bags, and a meetup with Santa. Head to their Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 4 and enjoy an enchanting whimsical evening in the heart of Juffair.
Slots are limited, so make sure your RSVP by calling or messaging them on WhatsApp to secure a spot.
Wed Dec 4, 6pm-7.30pm. The K Hotel, Juffair. @thekhotelbahrain (3660 0433).
Dec 5: Address Beach Resort
It doesn’t really feel like Christmas until your tree is up – so if you’re looking for a grand kickoff for Christmas in Bahrain, head straight to Address Beach Resort for their magnificent Christmas tree lighting at The Garden.
You can expect full on festive vibes at their Festive Village and echoes of their live Christmas carollers throughout the night. There’s also going to be hot chocolate and cookies, and of course a magical entrance by Santa Claus who will stick around for selfies – it doesn’t get more Christmassy than that.
Free admission. Thu Dec 5, 5pm-7pm. The Garden, Address Beach Resort. @addressresortbahrain (7799 8888).
Dec 6: Vida Beach Resort
Ready to jingle all the way this Christmas in Bahrain? If you by any chance can’t make it to Address’ tree lighting on December 5, worry not. You can head down to Vida Beach Resort for another magical tree lighting at Address Beach Resort’s The Garden.
You can expect the air to be buzzing with excitement and filled with the heavenly aroma of cookies and hot chocolate (and yes, you *can* indulge in them). There will be carollers singing throughout the night, and just when the time is right – Santa Claus will make a grand entrance. Best bring your cameras.
While your cameras are out, head straight to the man in red for some selfies.
Free admission. Fri Dec 6, 5pm-7.30pm. The Garden, Address Beach Resort. @vidabahrain (7748 8888).
Dec 7: The Art Hotel & Resort
The Art Hotel & Resort loves to welcome Christmas in Bahrain every year with all the sparkles and cheerful vibes. Head here on December 7 for their Christmas Tree Light Up, plus brilliant carols and festive treats.
Free admission. Sat Dec 7, 5.30pm-8.30pm. Choices Terrace, The Art Hotel & Resort. @theart.bh (16000111, 33580020).
Dec 12: Sofitel Bahrain
Christmas in Bahrain doesn’t normally combine two epic events in one go, but Sofitel is far from ‘normal’.
Head here on December 12 for a fabulous open-air Christmas tree lighting brunch at the Saraya lawn area featuring a fabulous festive buffet and a whole lot of sparkly lights.
BD36 (selected beverages), BD20 (kids 6-12 years), free (kids aged 5 and under). Thu Dec 12, 5pm-9pm. Saraya Lawn, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. @sofitelbahrain (38885789).
Magical experiences for Christmas in Bahrain
Dec 1-Jan 11: Festive Afternoon Tea at Bay View Lounge
Want to experience some magic this Christmas in Bahrain? The Bay View Lounge is sprinkling the season with festive pastries, savoury bites, and warm apple cider all the way into the New Year. Head here for a cosy yet elevated afternoon tea experience this Christmas.
Dec 1-Jan 11, noon-9pm. Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. @fsbahrain (1711 5500).
All December: Festive Afternoon Tea at The Lounge
When it comes to Christmas in Bahrain, all your favourite traditions are transformed into a festive experience – even afternoon tea.
If you’re like us and are already in the Christmas mood as soon as the ‘ber’ months begin, you can get a head start on the festive treats right from the beginning of December at The Lounge.
We don’t know about you, but adorning the merry holidays with a fabulous three-tiered Afternoon Tea with gingerbread, mince pie, Christmas pudding, and selected premium beverages just sounds terrific.
This set is perfect for two and includes the pretty Jing Flowering tea or coffee if that’s what you prefer. The stunning lush setting is pretty much the cherry (or star) on top.
From BD28. Dec 1-31, 3pm-6pm. The Lounge, Address Beach Resort. @addressresortbahrain (7799 8888).
Dec 4: Festive Bazaar
Christmas in Bahrain is not complete without a fabulous festive bazaar, right? Head to the Dilmun Club for a brilliant celebration and shopping plus a lovely choir performance by the students of the British School of Bahrain.
BD2 (non-members), free (members). Dilmun Club, Saar. @dilmunclub (1769 0926)
Dec 6, 13, 20: Gingerbread House Making
Looking for fun things to do with the little ones for Christmas in Bahrain? When it comes to festive traditions, gingerbread house making is always on the good list.
Head to the QIX Club and let the kids decorate their very own little gingerbread house. It’s cute and made of candy – they’re gonna absolutely love it.
BD24 (per kid). Dec 6,13,20 from 1pm-4pm. QIX Club, Vida Beach Resort. @vidabahrain (7748 8227).
Dec 6-Jan 7: Festive Afternoon Tea at Stage 2
The tradition of afternoon tea is made more cheerful during Christmas in Bahrain, especially when it comes with a meet and greet with Santa.
Head to Stage 2 for a festive afternoon tea treat with freshly brewed teas and hot cocoa, festive bites, warm scones, and delicious pastries.
BD26 (per set). Dec 6-Jan 7, 3pm-6pm. Stage 2, Vida Beach Resort. @vidabahrain (7748 8100).
Dec 7: Kids Christmas Party & Santas Grotto
Christmas in Bahrain just got a lot more fun for the little ones. Dilmun Club’s festive party and grotto comes with all the merry vibes complete with a Christmas disco, meet and greet with Santa *and* his elves, a fabulous lunch, games, pony rides, and more.
BD7 (non-members’ kids), BD6 (members’ kids). Sat Dec 7, noon-4pm. Dilmun Club, Saar. @dilmunclub (1769 0926).
Dec 14: Gingerbread House decorating
Looking for fun and creative things to do for Christmas in Bahrain? Head to Kolors at The K Hotel for a festive adventure at their Gingerbread House decorating event. You’ll be guided by chefs into bringing your imagination to life here, so don’t worry. Plus, the little ones will receive yummy refreshments and a goodie bag filled with treats to take home.
BD10 (per child). Sat Dec 14, noon-2pm. Kolors, The K Hotel. @kolorsrestaurant (3660 0433).
Dec 21: Kids Festive Baking Class
Let the little ones’ imaginations run wild at Hilton’s fabulous baking workshop where they can mix and match vibrant icing and festive toppings. All the materials they are included, and each child will leave with a box of their beautifully decorated cookies. All they really need to do is have fun.
Open for kids aged 5-12 years. Sat Dec 21, 2pm-5pm. Lamar Cafe and Lounge, Hilton Bahrain. @hiltonbahrain (3369 2013).
Dec 23-28: Christmas dinner at CUT by Wolfgang Puck
Feeling a little bougie this Christmas in Bahrain? The holiday season is the perfect time to go all out and give yourself and your loved ones the special celebration you deserve. Head up to CUT by Wolfgang Puck at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel and indulge in their festive à la carte menu featuring seasonal favorites. Plus, the view is stunning.
Dec 23-28, 7pm-11pm. CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. @fsbahrain (1711 5500).
Christmas Eve dinners in Bahrain
Dec 24: Choices
There’s nothing like a festive buffet feast to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain. Think seasonal favourites from all around the world, plus brilliant holiday decorations for the vibes.
You’ll quickly find that the name ‘Choices’ is very much fitting for this particular spot, because you *will* be spoilt for choice.
BD23 (soft beverages), BD30 (selected beverages), BD11.5 (kids 6-12 years), free (kids below 6 years). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-10.30pm. Choices, The Art Hotel & Resort. @theart.bh (16000111, 33580020).
Dec 24: Kolors
If Christmas in Bahrain to you means a festive feast, head to Kolors who agrees. This Christmas Eve buffet dinner will feature live entertainment and comes with special rates if you’re heading here as a group.
From BD14 (buffet with unlimited soft beverages), from BD22 (buffet with unlimited selected beverages). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-11pm. Kolors, The K Hotel. @kolorsrestaurant (3660 0433).
Dec 24: Legendz Steakhouse
Legendz Steakhouse is coming in jolly this Christmas in Bahrain with a special set menu featuring season-inspired dishes. Known for serving up premium cuts and grapes from France, New Zealand, and Europe – you are bound to have a memorable feast here.
BD29 (soft beverages), BD39 (selected beverages), BD18 (kids 6-12 years). Tue Dec 24, 7.30pm-12am. InterContinental Bahrain, Manama. @legendzsteakhouse (3696 7701).
Dec 24: Obab Al Bahar
When it comes down to it, Christmas in Bahrain is all about family, fun, and festivities. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for, head to Obab Al Bahar for a fabulous Christmas Eve dinner buffet complete with live stations, a trio live band, a visit from Santa, plus entertainment for the little ones.
BD24 (soft beverages), BD34 (selected beverages). Tue Dec 24, 6.30pm-11pm. Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain. @jumeirahgulfofbahrain (3366 3464).
Dec 24: Origin Kitchen & Culture
Let the festivities begin, friends. If you’re looking for a whimsical Christmas in Bahrain, the Origin Kitchen & Culture is your answer.
This year, their sparkling dinner is led by The Nutcracker featuring unlimited drinks and live entertainment. Here you can expect the usual fabulous buffet party filled with all the festive vibes.
Plus, if you’re a military personnel, you get a Christmas bonus of 20 percent off your bill.
BD18 (soft beverages), BD25 (selected beverages). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-11pm. Hilton Bahrain, Juffair. @hiltonbahrain (3369 2013).
Dec 24: Origins
Sometimes, the night before Christmas in Bahrain is even more magical than the day itself. This is when you gather round with all your loved ones to sing, dance, and stuff your faces with all the festive classics.
Head to Orgins for a fabulous Christmas Eve buffet with live entertainment and a whole lot of festive spirit to go around.
BD25 (soft beverages), BD35 (selected beverages), BD12.5 (kids 6-12 years). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-11pm. Origins, Vida Beach Resort. @vidabahrain (7748 8100).
Dec 24: Pool Delight
Want to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain with cute roaming characters and balloonists? Pool delight knows how to keep the kiddos (and kiddos at heart) entertained before the big day.
At this Christmas dinner, you can enjoy a fabulous festive buffet featuring international dishes and live music from their duo band.
BD20 (soft beverages), BD27 (house beverages), BD10 (kids 6-12 years), free (kids below 6 years). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-10.30pm. Palavra Resort, Reef Island. @palavraresort (1311 0110).
Dec 24: RŌNIN 47
Prefer more Japanese vibes this Christmas in Bahrain? RŌNIN 47 has got you covered with a brilliant festive à la carte special menu for Christmas Eve. Think sushis, nigiris, mochis, and more but made to Santa and his elves’ taste.
Tue Dec 24, 6pm-11pm. Palavra Resort, Reef Island. @ronin47bahrain (3346 7664).
Dec 24: The Meat Co.
Looking to indulge this Christmas in Bahrain? The Meat Co. has prepared a pretty special set menu for Christmas Eve that will be perfect for a more laid back, yet elevated celebration in style.
You can expect lovely festive menu options for entrees including tuna tartare, wagyu carpaccio, or grilled octopus.
For salad, your options are a nice and bright burrata or the ‘go green’ which consists of coloured lettuce, avocado, edamame, pear, pumpkin seeds, and quinoa with honey mustard dressing.
For your main course your options are turkey, tenderloin, or salmon, and for dessert you have a brilliant Christmas pudding.
You also have the option to order from their à la carte menu and any of their main course dishes individually, if you prefer.
BD65. Tue Dec 24, time TBC. Block 338, Adliya. @themeatcobh (1774 2080).
Dec 24: The Restaurant
If you’re looking for a pretty sumptuous Christmas Eve dinner, head to The Restaurant for a festive buffet complete with live entertainment to keep the magical vibes going all throughout the evening.
When it comes to enchanting places to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain, you can expect Address Beach Resort to go all out and deliver a brilliant atmosphere to spend with the loved ones.
BD30 (soft beverages), BD40 (selected beverages), BD20 (kids 6-12 years). Tue Dec 24, 7pm-11pm. The Restaurant, Address Beach Resort. @addressresortbahrain (7799 8888).
Dec 24: Waterfront Restaurant
On the hunt for a brilliant Christmas Eve dinner by the sea? Head down to Waterfront Restaurant and indulge in a fabulous festive buffet, complete with bubbles and hops. There’s going to be live entertainment, plus you can ask to sit outdoors to really enjoy the weather and the views.
Go as a group of 10 and get a 20 percent discount, plus one complimentary seat.
BD20. Tue Dec 24, 6.30pm-11pm. Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront, Manama. @grandswissbelhotelwaterfront (1717 7333).
Christmas day experiences in Bahrain
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Address Beach Resort
When it comes to the big day, Christmas in Bahrain is more magical than ever. If you’re feeling grand, head to The Restaurant for a festive brunch feast featuring a buffet inspired by the season and fabulous sea views.
BD30 (soft beverages), BD40 (selected beverages), BD20 (kids 6-12 years). Wed Dec 25, 1pm-4pm. The Restaurant, Address Beach Resort. @addressresortbahrain (7799 8888).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at the British Club of Bahrain
Whether you’re a homesick Brit or not, Christmas in Bahrain at the British Club will have you feeling right at home (away from home). Head here for a fabulous brunch at enjoy the festivities with the community.
BD36 (non-members), BD33 (members), BD12 (kids 7-12 years), free (kids under 7). Wed Dec 25, noon-4pm. British Club Bahrain, Ahmed Ali Kanoo Avenue, Manama. @britishclubofbahrain (1772 8245).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Choices restaurant and terrace
The best thing about Christmas in Bahrain (apart from the fab food) is the gathering of family members and loved ones, laughing together, and enjoying each other’s company.
Now, when it comes to the where – a spot brimming with festive cheer and a fabulous international menu comes to mind. Enter: Choices.
Head here for a brilliant al fresco brunch feast on the terrace (because brunch is always better with a view). You also can opt for indoor seating which is equally as stunning.
BD38 (soft beverages), BD48 (selected beverages), BD17.5 (kids, 6-12 years), free (kids below 6 years). Wed Dec 25, 12.30pm-5pm. Choices, The Art Hotel & Resort. @theart.bh (1600 0111, 3358 0020).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at CUT by Wolfgang Puck
The holiday is the perfect time to go all out and give yourself and your loved ones the special celebration you deserve. Head up to CUT by Wolfgang Puck at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel and indulge in their special festive brunch this Christmas in Bahrain featuring seasonal favorites. Plus, the view is stunning.
Dec 25, 12.30pm-3pm. CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. @fsbahrain (1711 5500).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Hilton
By now, you already know that Hilton does not *ever* hold back when it comes to themed brunches. If you’re wondering where to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain with a grand party, head straight up to Origins.
Expect the usual fabulous buffet in full festive mode plus all the good vibes.
BD25 (unlimited soft beverages), BD32 (unlimited beverages). Wed Dec 25, 12.30pm-4pm. Hilton Bahrain, Juffair. @hiltonbahrain (3369 2013).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Kolors
Want to celebrate Christmas in Bahrain with a festive feast, surprise gifts, and santa? Kolors will be featuring its brunch classics and seasonal specialties, at their Sparkling Christmas Brunch buffet with selected unlimited beverages, perfect for gathering with loved ones.
If you go as a group, you’d get a special rate too.
BD25. Wed Dec 25, noon-4pm. Kolors, The K Hotel. @kolorsrestaurant (3660 0433).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Obab Al Bahar
At the end of the day, Christmas in Bahrain is all about family, fun, and festivities. With all that in mind, Obab Al Bahar is hosting a fabulous Christmas brunch buffet complete with live stations, a trio live band, a visit from Santa, plus entertainment for the little ones.
BD35 (soft beverages), BD45 (selected beverages). Wed Dec 25, 1pm-5pm. Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain. @jumeirahgulfofbahrain (3366 3464).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at the Regency Tent
Christmas in Bahrain is never complete without a special visit from Santa. Luckily, he’s dropping by the Regency tent on this magical day as he makes his way around the Kingdom.
Head here with the whole fam for a brilliant festive brunch buffet featuring season-inspired dishes and live music.
BD29 (soft beverages), BD 39 (selected beverages), BD18 (kids 6-12 years). Wed Dec 25, 12.30pm-4pm. InterContinental Bahrain, Manama. @interconbahrain (3696 7701).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Sofitel
If all you want for Christmas in Bahrain is a fabulous brunch for the whole family, head to Saraya at Sofitel for a brilliant celebration with a very festive buffet and a whole lot of Christmas spirit to go around.
BD49 (early bird deal until Nov 30). BD55. Wed Dec 25, 1pm-5pm. Saraya, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. @sofitelbahrain (3888 5789).
Dec 25: Christmas Brunch at Waterfront Restaurant
On the big day itself, head to Waterfront Restaurant and enjoy the brilliant sea and pool view as you indulge in a fabulous feast this Christmas in Bahrain. This celebration comes with bubbles and live entertainment that’s perfect for the whole family to get into the spirit.
Plus, book as a group of 10 and enjoy an extra 20 percent off and one complimentary seat.
BD20. Wed Dec 25, noon-5pm. Grand Swiss-Belhotel Waterfront, Manama. @grandswissbelhotelwaterfront (1717 7333).
Dec 25: Christmas Lunch at The Meat Co.
Looking to indulge this Christmas in Bahrain? The Meat Co. has prepared a pretty special Christmas day lunch set menu that will be perfect for a more laid back, yet elevated celebration in style.
You can expect lovely festive menu options for entrees including tuna tartare, wagyu carpaccio, or grilled octopus.
For salad, your options are a nice and bright burrata or the ‘go green’ which consists of coloured lettuce, avocado, edamame, pear, pumpkin seeds, and quinoa with honey mustard dressing.
For your main course your options are turkey, tenderloin, or salmon, and for dessert you have a brilliant Christmas pudding.
You also have the option to order from their à la carte menu and any of their main course dishes individually, if you prefer.
BD65. Wed Dec 25, time TBC. Block 338, Adliya. @themeatcobh (1774 2080).
Dec 25: Christmas Lunch Buffet at Vida Beach Resort
When it comes to Christmas in Bahrain with the family, it doesn’t get much better than gathering around a table and indulging in a festive feast. The celebration is made even more magical with live entertainment and a fabulous view of the Marassi Beach. Expect a lavish spread of international favourites on this Santa day.
BD25 (soft beverages), BD35 (selected beverages), BD 12.5 (kids 6-12 years). Wed Dec 25, 1pm-4pm. Origins, Vida Beach Resort. @vidabahrain (7748 8100).
Dec 25: Christmas Dinner at Al Waha
Heading out for dinner this Christmas in Bahrain? The Al Waha buffet is a fab choice whether you’re celebrating with friends or family. Known for its brilliant array of international dishes, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Plus, if you’re a Prestige Club or NSA member, you get an additional 25 percent off (because what’s Christmas without an excellent deal?).
BD25 (soft beverages), BD32 (selected beverages). Wed Dec 25, 7pm-10.30pm. The Gulf Hotel, Adliya. @alwahagulfhotelbh (1774 6425, 1774 6426).
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