This is a sponsored article on behalf of the Royal Albert Hall.
The most Christmassy place in London? With almost 150 years worth of yuletide celebrations under its belt, it's got to be the Royal Albert Hall. And although this festive season might feel a little unusual (looking at you, global pandemic), the celebrations at this historic venue are set to be as magical as ever.
From the awe-inspiring annual performance of Handel's Messiah to carol concerts, there's sledge-loads of musical mayhem to discover. While the in-person performances are selling out fast, thanks to Royal Albert Hall's streamed events programme this year you can experience all the festive fun no matter where you are.
Let's have a little peek, shall we?
First up, a time-honoured Christmas tradition: the Royal Albert Hall's annual performance of Handel's Messiah. This sublime oratorio has been performed here an incredible 524 times since it first appeared on the programme in 1872 and — hallelujah — it's back for 2020. This year's version, which takes place on Tuesday 15 December, features the Philharmonia Chorus and special guest singers accompanied by the inimitable Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
For the first time ever, you can enjoy the performance without leaving your living room thanks to the Royal Albert Hall's streaming tickets. These are available on-demand, so all you have to do is find a time that suits your household and get some mulled wine on the go to make your viewing party pop.
Also worth slipping into your festive pyjamas for: Royal Albert Hall's spectacular selection of streamed carol concerts. On Friday 18 December The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is joined by the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain for six days of fabulously festive days of carol singing.
No need to remember those dates, though, as you can watch all the carols on-demand when you buy streaming tickets. With accompaniment from the Voice of Jupiter (the venue's 9,999 pipe organ), your Spotify Christmas playlist can't hold a candle to this.
Peruse the Royal Albert Hall's streamed and socially-distanced festive programme in full by clicking here. Some events have already totally sold out, so do make sure you nab your tickets while you can. If you do track down in-person tickets, know that you can go ahead and book with confidence thanks to the venue's COVID-19 refund and exchange policy, which guarantees that you won't lose out if you have self-isolate and miss the show.
