What Is A White Christmas?
According to the Met Office, the definition of a 'White Christmas' is when at least one snowflake is observed falling to the ground during Christmas Day. If this were all it took to have the rest of us satisfied on the 25th December then we'd have a white Christmas every year - but in actuality, the majority of us have slightly higher expectations. We love to go sledding, make snow angels and snow men, and have snowball fights all throughout December, and we tend to be pretty disappointed when we don't get to...
Will It Snow In The UK This Christmas?
Though it may feel as if Christmas is smack bang in the middle of the winter season, the 25th December is really only the beginning of the snowy period for the UK. The country is more likely to see snow in January and March over December, but with climate change increasing the average temperatures each year, it is becoming even more unpredictable. This year, we can look forward to a 9% probability of a white Christmas in London, with a 13% chance for Birmingham, and 11% chance for Glasgow.
Where Is The Best Place For A White Christmas?
So, where is the best place to be if you, like the dreamer Bing Crosby, love a white Christmas? Well, it's certain that the UK is not on the list, so better get packing for the following places...
Budapest, Hungary
Not only can you enjoy a wintery white Christmas in Budapest, but Hungary's capital is also filled with beautiful Christmas markets and traditional food. You can get your skates on too! Head down to one of the oldest ice rinks in Europe that sits just under the beautiful Vajdahunyad Castle, and feel free to enjoy a mulled wine as you do!
Tallinn, Estonia
Another winter wonderland is in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, where you will find the most beautiful Christmas tree (according to locals). You'll also have the chance to try out Estonian delicacies, flavours, and crafts as you make your way through the snowy streets of Tallinn Old Town.
Krakow, Poland
Christmas day in Poland is on the 24th December rather than the 25th - which works out for tourists who can take a quiet stroll through the Old Town on the eve whilst all shops are closed for the night! Krakow also has a picturesque Christmas market that covers the main square and is filled to the brim with traditional desserts, drinks, and plenty of gifts to take home.
Lapland, Finland
Lapland is the official hometown of Santa Claus, so it's no surprise that Finland is on the list of places to be if you're dreaming of a white Christmas. It's also a great option if you have little ones that love the snow! Not only can you go sledding with huskies and meet Santa's reindeers up close, but Lapland also offers, on average, 50-75cm of snow on the ground, is that a white enough Christmas for you?
Reykjavik, Iceland
Another magical place to visit during the festive period is Reykjavik in Iceland. December is the darkest time of the year for Icelanders - but this isn't a bad thing! If you take the time to look up during the darkest hours, you might be lucky enough to see the famous Northern Lights dancing in the sky. Not only this, but you will be surrounded by enough snow and stunning Christmas decorations to fill Santa's workshop twice over - beautiful, but make sure to pack a thick coat or two!