The tropics might skip the snow, but Kuala Lumpur never skips the spectacle
the hiplife asia
If you thought the city slowed down for the holidays, think again. December in KL is a sensory overload in the best possible way. We are talking about cool highland breezes meeting neon carnival lights, sophisticated whiskey trails winding through Chinatown, and artisanal markets that make gift-giving an art form.
Whether you are looking to escape the heat at a winter wonderland, indulge in a 44-bar cocktail trail, or simply find that perfect handcrafted ornament, this is your definitive guide to the most magical month of the year.
THE LONG-HAUL SPECTACLES
Events running all month long (or close to it).
Jameson Christmas to Chinatown
This isn’t just an event; it’s a takeover. Jameson is painting Chinatown green this December with a massive 44-bar trail nationwide, but the heart of the action is in KL. Expect festive cocktails, exclusive Black Barrel menus, and a vibe that blurs the line between a chill hangout and a street party.
- The Highlight: Mark your calendar for December 20, when they host a Coffee Rave + Preloved Market in KL. It’s the perfect collision of caffeine, sustainable shopping, and day-drinking culture.
- When: Dec 1 – Dec 31, 2025
- Where: Chinatown, KL (and participating bars nationwide)
The Great Winter Carnival
If you crave the chill of a real winter, head up the mountain. Genting Winter Wonderland returns with “The Great Winter Carnival,” transforming the peak into a glowing, frosty escape. Think European-style festive huts, dazzling light installations, and that rare Malaysian luxury: the need for a jacket.
- When: Now – Jan 1, 2026
- Where: Genting Winter Wonderland, Genting Highlands
THE MARKET TRAIL
Where to find artisanal gifts, community vibes, and empty your bank account in style.
Del’cs ‘Baby, It’s Fawn Outside’ Christmas Market
Gen Z’s favorite thrift market is back with an “Enchanted Forest” theme. Expect over 80 trendy vendors, Y2K fashion grails, tooth gems, tattoos, and live DJ sets. It’s chaotic, colorful, and the coolest place to be seen this month.
- When: Dec 20 – 21 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Where: JAM PJ
Pasar KL: December Festive Markets
REXKL is hosting two back-to-back artsy editions. If your aesthetic is “quirky, indie, and slightly mysterious,” this is your playground. Browse handicrafts, self-care treats, and maybe get a spontaneous tattoo.
- When: Dec 5 – 7 & Dec 19 – 21 | 11:00 AM – Late
- Where: REXKL
Off The Track 2.3
The “Big Beautiful Christmas Giveaway” edition. Expect live performances by NJWA and Saint Kylo, festive vibes, and actual free stuff from brands like Swee Lee and Water The Plant. It’s a market that feels more like a block party.
- When: Dec 6 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Where: VOX Live
Christmas at The Campus Ampang
Ampang’s coolest community hub is turning into a festive village. Often featuring curators like “Sane Market,” this event is known for high-quality local vendors and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere.
- When: Dec 4 – 7 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Where: The Campus, Ampang
Traders Market: Christmas Edition
Set in the industrial-chic slate of The Row, this is the gold standard for curated pop-ups. Think hand-poured candles, bespoke jewelry, and aesthetic homegrown brands.
- When: Dec 6 – 7 | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Where: Slate @ The Row KL
Merry Market Society
Mont Kiara brings the cheer across two massive weekends. Perfect for the expat community and locals alike, expect premium vendors and a bustling social atmosphere.
- When: Dec 6 – 7 & Dec 13 – 14
- Where: Society, 163 Retail Park, Mont Kiara
Kozie Christmas Market
Status Check: Did you miss it? This one-day pop-up at Jumpa KL was a hit for creative workshops (gouache, journaling) and stamping fun.
- When: Nov 29 (Past)
- Where: Jumpa KL, Jalan Ipoh
Sparkling Charity Christmas Bazaar
Status Check: The Early Bird. The German Speaking Society’s 38th edition brought authentic Weihnachtsmarkt vibes to Bamboo Hills.
- When: Nov 22 (Past)
- Where: Astana by Bamboo Hills
WORKSHOPS & CREATIVE SESSIONS
Get your hands dirty (or sticky).
The Moom x Mossery Sip & Goal Setting Workshop
Pair year-end reflection with creativity. Build a vision board with stickers and stationery while sipping a custom Moom mocktail. It’s the mindful reset you need before 2026.
- When: Dec 7 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Where: Lilin + Co’s OL Factory, PJ
Sip & Frost
A cake decorating workshop with a twist: free-flow wine for the first hour. No experience needed, just sip, frost, and leave with a cute bento cake.
- When: Dec 6 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Where: LMP (Lumi Marketplace), Lumi Tropicana
Chunky Yarn Wreath Workshop
Get cozy and craft your own chunky yarn wreath. It’s tactile, festive, and comes with a free drink to keep the creative juices flowing.
- When: Dec 6 | Slots from 10:30 AM
- Where: Pages Book Cafe, Ara Damansara
Build Your Tree with Joy Workshop
Get hands-on at B.I.G. Publika. A delightful session for kids (and the young at heart) to build their own miniature Christmas tree.
- When: Dec 6
- Where: Masak-Masak Studio, B.I.G. Publika
FOR THE FAMILY & LITTLE ONES
Workshops and adventures for the kids.
The Magical Christmas Mission: Onward to the Northpole!
Baby Atelier hosts an immersive morning adventure for kids aged 2-6. Storytelling, sensory play, and holiday magic await.
- When: Dec 13 | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Where: Baby Atelier Damansara Heights
- Fee: RM55 (Non-students) | RM50 (Students)
THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON
Music, ballet, and pure festive vibes.
Nutcracker & Clara’s Dream
The most famous Christmas ballet returns! Presented by City Ballet Academy, this performance blends elegant choreography with theatrical storytelling. Expect Baroque-style gowns and drifting snowflakes.
- When: Dec 12 – 14
- Where: Pentas 1, klpac
Kaya Jam Festival
A massive celebration of homegrown music. Headlined by Evie Feroza & Friends, this is where you go to sing, sweat, and vibe with the local scene.
- When: Dec 6 | 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Where: JAMBOX, JAM PJ
Carols by Candlelight
For many, it isn’t Christmas until they hear “Silent Night” by candlelight. HTBB puts on one of the city’s most beautiful and welcoming carol services.
- When: Dec 14
- Where: Holy Trinity Bukit Bintang (HTBB), Lot 10
A December to Remember
December in KL is a choice. You can let the month fly by in a blur of traffic, or you can step into these pockets of magic, building trees with your kids, sipping Jameson in a heritage shophouse, or feeling the cool air of Genting.
My Advice? Start your month with the Jameson Trail for a taste of the city’s nightlife, spend the mid-month weekends hunting for treasures at Traders Market and The Campus, and end on a high note with Carols by Candlelight.
“The best gifts aren’t under the tree; they’re the memories you make while searching for them.”
the hiplife asia
Are you into events and concerts and you still got more vacation leave? Hear this out! Things to do in KL December 2025: 27 Best Events
