Kolkata Christmas Festival

The 7th edition of the Kolkata Christmas Festival inaugurated by the Honorable Chief Minister of West Bengal on 22nd December 2017 in the presence of Archbishop Thomas D’Souza (Archbishop of Calcutta) and Bishop Ashok Biswas (Bishop of the Church of North India) and a galaxy of dignitaries. The Festival has generated interest and excitement not only in Kolkata but around the globe as well. The Christmas themed lighting which illuminates the entire stretch of Park Street is an attraction which draws the crowd and sets the tone for the spirit of Christmas. Community food stalls along the pavement with delicacies give people an excuse to venture out and satisfy their taste buds.

With the lighting of the Christmas Tree by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, all the lights are switched on, giving Park Street a complete a makeover. A solemn prayer at the crib, followed by the welcoming of the dignitaries on stage, the Christmas message and prayer followed by the address given by the Chief Minister set the stage for the Christmas celebrations to begin. The Bengali Christian Choir and the Assembly of God Church Choir mellifluously sang Christmas carols followed by Usha Uthup and other bands performing for the benefit of the crowded and enthusiastic Allen Park.

The Festival lasted till 30th December, 2017 and every evening the park was filled with crowds gathering to listen to the Christmas carols and performing artists . The Christmas pageant with over 500 students from schools across the city, walking down Park Street, dressed in colorful costumes symbolizing Christmas adds to the flavor of the season.

All this would not have possible without the help of a government that takes a keen interest in our community. The entire festival is organised by the Tourism Department of the Government of West Bengal in as sociation with Appejay Surrendra.

The KMC, Kolkata Police and CESC also played their parts successfully. There was an entire team officially designated by the Tourism Department, organising and managing each day’s events. Another successful Kolkata Christmas Festival was carried out flawlessly thanks to the efforts of many minds and hands. Our heartfelt gratitude to the Kolkata Christmas Festival Committee Members for the mammoth planning and execution that made this Christmas Festival a huge success . Our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Mr. Derek O’ Brien, MP who is the brains behind this festival and Mr. Shane Calvert, MLA who coordinated all the arrangements for the entire program. We are grateful to the Honorable Chief Minister of West Bengal for allowing us this wonderful way of celebrating the spirit of Christmas spirit in our lovely city of Kolkata.