This festival occurs around the world on the shortest day of the year – or more specifically, the fewest hours of daylight in a 24-hour period. ‘Solstice’ derives from the Latin words ‘sol’ and ‘sistere’, which translate as ‘sun’ and ‘to stand still’. Winter solstice is held on or around 21st December while summer solstice occurs in June. The dates and style of the event have differed amongst cultures throughout the years, from seven-day Saturnalia celebrations in Ancient Rome to the Iranian festival of Yalda, where feasts and poetry readings occur late into the night. 

UNESCO Heritage-listed Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England, has attracted solstice worshippers for centuries. Embark on an English countryside adventure with a stay at Chewton Glen. This charming hotel sits amongst 130 acres of manicured lawns and is just an hour’s drive away from Stonehenge, the world-famous Neolithic site beloved by solstice enthusiasts. It is also near England’s beautiful south coast so you can combine a touch of winter cheer with the Great British Seaside.

Celebrating 14 years since Budapest's very first Advent Basilica, this year's event is bigger and better than ever before. The magnificent Christmas Market, held in the historic St Stephen’s Square, opened at the end of November and is scheduled to run until early January – all the more time to book a weekend getaway.

For a festive stay with a touch of old-world glamour, book a stay at the Aria Hotel Budapest. This magnificent hotel is housed in a neoclassical building, right next to St Stephen’s Basilica where the Christmas market takes place each year.  

Since the 1960s, this celebration of African-American history and culture has taken place across the US. The ‘harvest festival’ of Kwanzaa (deriving from the phrase ‘matunda ya kwanza’ meaning ‘first fruits’ in Swahili) takes place over seven days between 26th December to 1st January, with events ranging from live performances and shows to interactive activities and games. The festivities culminate in a large feast on the sixth day called ‘Karamu’, where harvest produce is presented and enjoyed communally.

Celebrate the origins of Kwanzaa in California, with a stay at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills. Cocktails can be enjoyed on the poolside roof terrace, or head to the hotel’s onsite restaurant for a range of delicious seasonal dishes. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and plush furnishings – perfect for relaxing after all the excitement. Of course, you can explore all of our luxury hotels at ASMALLWORLD Collection, where you will receive VIP benefits such as a room upgrade, late check-out and more at no extra cost.