What To Do In KL This Festive Season
Every December, I’m reminded why Kuala Lumpur is such an underrated city to spend the festive season in. The moment the year-end rolls around, KL shifts into a different mode altogether. Shopping malls glow a little brighter, cafés start pushing out their festive drinks, and suddenly everyone seems to be in the mood to go out again. Even if you’re not travelling anywhere special, you’ll find that there’s always something happening in the city: a new pop-up market, a cultural show you didn’t expect, or a concert that somehow slips into the calendar at the last minute.
Maybe it’s because I’ve spent so many year-ends here, but I’ve learned that KL isn’t just about Christmas décor and New Year’s Eve fireworks. The city is full of small, interesting pockets of activity if you know where to look. You’d think you know what’s going on, but there are always little events popping up that you don’t even know about until someone tells you.
So that’s exactly what we’re going to do, show you the best events happening in KL this festive season, so you can make the most of your weekends and holiday plans.
1. ParkCity Year-End Light Festival @ Desapark City
Running from 28 Nov – 4 Jan 2026, this free light festival turns Desa ParkCity’s Waterfront into a glowing wonderland of twinkling installations and festive décor, ideal for evening strolls and photos.
Running on 19–21 & 26–28 December 2025 at TRX, Kuala Lumpur, Huuha Land (formerly Pingmin Hub), is a lively pet friendly holiday pop-up with festive decorations, food stalls and games. It’s a fun spot to soak up the holiday vibes, enjoy time with friends and family, and bring your furry companions along for the festivities.
3. Kita Live House @ Goodnosh PJ
Running on 20, and 27 December 2025, the Kita Live House Series at GoodNosh PJ offers an exclusive listening experience with up-and-coming Malaysian artists. Organised by Monsta and co-hosted by JBL, the event lets you enjoy music the way the artists intended, with optional Sip & Sound passes to pair live tunes with kombucha. It’s the perfect spot to discover new music, soak up creative vibes, and spend your Saturday nights in style.
For health freaks, runners, or anyone looking for something a little different, Larian Kita 2025: Saturday Night Run in Ampang on 20 December 2025 lights up the streets with neon, fun, and community spirit. More than just a run, this glowing night event celebrates inclusivity, health, and togetherness, bringing families, friends, and neighbours together for a memorable festive evening.
5. Finch Market @ The Campus Ampang
Running from 22–28 December 2025 at The Campus Ampang, this festive event promises a week-long lineup of fun, food, and entertainment for all ages. With activities running from 11 AM to 10 PM daily, it’s the perfect spot to explore, unwind, and soak up the holiday spirit with friends and family.
6. December Festive Markets @ REXKL
Running from 19–21 December 2025, the December Festive Markets at REXKL are a Christmas-themed edition of the popular Pasar KL. Open from 11 AM till late, the market features artisanal crafts, festive treats, and local finds. It’s a great place to discover unique gifts, sample tasty bites, and enjoy a fun day out with friends and family.
7. Baby its fawn outside @ JAM PJ
Running on 20–21 December 2025 at Jam Box and Atrium, JAM PJ, Del’cs 2025 returns with its most impressive Christmas edition yet, set in a magical Enchanted Forest. With over 80 popular vendors, festive activities, and exclusive promotions, it’s a great place to explore unique gifts, enjoy tasty treats, and step into a whimsical holiday experience with friends and family.
8. NYE Countdown @ various spots in the city
For those looking to ring in 2026 with a bang, Kuala Lumpur has plenty of hotspots for New Year’s Eve fireworks and countdown celebrations. I couldn’t just pick one. It really depends on what you’re into. Whether you love lively street parties, a buzzing nightlife, or a more relaxed rooftop view, KL has something for everyone.
- Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur: enjoy a quieter approach with one of the highest vantage points in the city, perfect for seeing the fireworks without the crowds.
- KLCC Park: the iconic Twin Towers light up with fireworks; if you plan to watch from the park, arrive early to secure a good spot.
- KL Tower: its decks open for NYE, giving you a clear skyline view without squeezing into the ground-level crowd.
- TRX: known for its large outdoor spaces, live performances, and late-night mall hours; previous years included a countdown celebration with fireworks. (Official 2025 details are yet to be announced.)
No matter which spot you choose, KL’s city lights and festive energy make for a memorable way to celebrate your holidays and to ring in the new year.
