You may have the general idea of what ‘Christmas Eve’ is, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. Referring to the evening or day before Christmas, celebrated on December 24^th, ‘Christmas Eve’ derived from ‘Christmas’ and ‘Eve’. The term ‘Eve’ comes from the Old English word ᴂfen, meaning ‘evening’. This is why the celebrations often begin after sunset, originating from Christian practices of beginning holy days at sundown, following Jewish customs. After the sun sets is also the right time to send Christmas Eve greetings; people also usually say phrases, like “Looking forward to Christmas Eve” or “What are your plans for Christmas Eve?” to others.

What do people usually do on Christmas Eve? Since this is one of holy days for Christians, they may attend midnight mass or candlelight services to mark the arrival of Christmas Day. They also gather families and friends for special Christmas Eve dinner and gift exchanges. Cities and towns light up with festive Christmas-themed decorations and trees while the children usually hang stockings or set out cookies for Santa Claus. Meanwhile, the other may enjoy watching Christmas movies, visit Christmas markets for holiday shopping, take a stroll through neighborhoods, or simply do a cozy evening reading by the window.

Christmas Eve is more than just a day before Christmas, but the moment of togetherness, gratitude, and jollification. Whether you prefer lively gatherings of peaceful solitude, the magic of Christmas Eve is in how you choose to spend it. Now that you’re wondering how, you have to keep on reading some information below to find out ways to make your Christmas Eve special; this can also be for you to anticipate questions about your Christmas Eve plans.

Malaysia can be the best choice for travelers to spend Christmas Eve because this multicultural country hosts numerous holidays and festivals throughout the year. Where to go? No big deals; here are some of the best destinations in Malaysia for your memorable Christmas Eve:

As the capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is the main stop you can’t miss during Christmas Eve. This lively metropolis is religiously-diverse and a hub for many cultural activities and events in Malaysia. On Christmas Eve, some iconic malls like Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC, and The Gardens Malls are beautifully decorated with festive lights, Christmas trees, and themed displays. There would also be plenty of Christmas events, caroling sessions, and live performances there. To enhance your Christmas Eve experiences, conclude the day by having a fine dining or chilling out at some rooftop bars offering spectacular views of the city. For those seeking a spiritual experience, churches like St. John’s Cathedral often host Christmas Eve masses.

Penang is a Malaysian state located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia along the Strait of Malacca. Its cosmopolitan society results in a great number of celebrations and festivals all year round, including Christmas. On Christmas Eve in Penang, you’ll find a unique fusion of Christmas and local cultural appeals with colonial-era decorations at George Town’s heritage streets. Dining experience and staycation? Head to Gurney Drive or Batu Ferringhi for lively nightlife, festive dining options, upscale resorts and hotels, as well as beachside celebrations.

Another historical region in Malaysia besides Penang is Melaka. Officially Historic State of Malacca, it’s a Malaysian state located in the southern region of the Malay Peninsula, facing the Strait of Malacca. Surely, you’ll find Christmas Eve like no other here, such as Jonker Street transforming into a festive wonderland with markets and Christmas-themed decorations, or The Portuguese settlement coming alive with sparkling Christmas lights, carols, and community celebrations. The riverside cafes and restaurants throughout the area also offer cozy and exuberant dining experiences.

Malaysia is a tropical country, but if you want to get a “wintery” feel during Christmas Eve, Genting Highlands should be your prime destination in Malaysia. Located on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali in the Titiwangsa Mountains, Genting Highlands is Christmas in the cloud, giving you a tropical winter escape. The major shopping area, SkyAvenue Mall, is adorned with Christmas lights and hosts holiday-themed events. The nearby theme park also offers exciting rides and live Christmas performances. Genting Highlands is the perfect stop for solo travelers who want to enjoy crowds without feeling isolated.

Malaysia is where family fun never ends; it offers plenty of family-oriented attractions all over the country. Below are several recommended activities for families on Christmas Eve for your lasting family memories:

If you’re visiting Malaysia with your kids, you can’t miss Christmas Eve without stopping by Malaysia’s largest indoor theme park located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Berjaya Times Square Theme Park houses 3 attraction sections: Galaxy Station, Fantasy Garden, and Virtual Reality. Don’t leave before experiencing the first and largest crochet playground in Malaysia at Fantasy Labyrinth and immerse in the tech-integrated exploration of the haunted house in Virtual Reality!

Now that you’re in Penang, make time for the state’s first roller skating adventure at RollerKa. Surrounded by mesmerizing LED lights-illuminated environment, the rink gives you magical and photo-worthy ambience. There would also be live DJ performances and professional guides to elevate your skating experiences. Always remember to wear a helmet and knee pads for your safety.

A spooky Christmas Eve awaits in Melaka! Visit Ghost Museum Melaka, Malaysia’s first ghost-themed museum, to discover local ghosts and evil myths, such as Orang Minyak, Pontianak, Toyol, and more. The strobe lighting and fog effects would welcome you as you walk in. You may start getting goosebumps, but always get your camera ready and snap some photos of the ghost mannequins; or try to take selfies with them!

Plan to celebrate Christmas Eve in Genting Highlands with your family? Genting SkyWorlds is your destination. This one of the world’s best new theme parks will take the visitors on a sky-high adventure through 9 movies and adventure-inspired worlds: Eagle Mountain, Andromeda Base, Ice Age, Robots Rivet Town, etc featuring adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions to soar up your imagination.

Your romantic Christmas Eve starts here in Malaysia! Besides family, couples also have their places in this country. Consider taking several activities below to ignite the spark of romance with your loved one on this Christmas Eve:

Enjoy night exploration of Kuala Lumpur on an open-top double-decker bus at your own pace with KL City of Lights Tour. Starting from the Petronas Twin Towers to historic Merdeka Square, you’ll experience the city’s energetic nightlife and spectacular night skyline. Hop off the bus anytime to snap some pictures, try local cuisines, or just feel the city air; then hop back on to continue the adventure. This tour is ideal to experience Kuala Lumpur beyond the ordinary.

Combining tours with dining experiences? We’ve got you! But first, you’re going to ascend the Penang Hill via the funicular train up to 800 meters above the sea level while enjoying the magnificent panoramic views of George Town. Then, as you stop by the colonial David Brown’s restaurant, you’ll be welcomed by a delightful dinner amidst a well-manicured garden and an iconic lily pond. Unwind under the stars and cool mountain air with Dinner at Penang Hill-Evening Tour package!

Not in the mood for a tour? You can head to The Orchard Resort and Spa Melaka to experience the most modern accommodation and facilities in the award-winning Malaysia’s Best Wellness Spa. Knowing that, your romantic getaway is obviously guaranteed here. Secure your spot now and take advantage of a full body massage, free jacuzzi, steam room, free guided tours in The Orchard Fruit Farm, and a movie night at the property’s state-of-the-art amphitheater.

Another recommended relaxing session for couples on Christmas Eve in Malaysia is The Yanné Onsen Spa Genting Highlands. This first hot spring-themed hotel in Asia features hot spring pools rich in mountain minerals. Relax, rejuvenate, and revitalize with saunas and teas, too. Trust me, your love for your partner will grow deeper with each passing moment in this spa facility.

Having no company shouldn’t hamper you from hanging out on Christmas Eve because solo vacation is fun, too. In Malaysia, you can do lots of things that will make you enjoy your self-guided travel while staying socially engaged, such as:

The Habitat Penang Hill is a treetop trail offering you nature adventures like no other. As you walk along the iconic Canopy Walkway, you can witness the stunning views of the thriving rainforest, engage yourself in the hill’s diverse ecosystem, and encounter rare species. You can also gain some insights on the country’s biodiversity and conservation through interactive displays and VR experiences. Remember to end the tour with an amazing moment of a breathtaking sunset from Curtis Crest.

Another recommended activity for solo travelers in Malaysia on Christmas Eve is the Private Historical Malacca Day Tour. This 8-hour tour will bring you to the glorious past of Malaysia via the majestic salmon pink town hall, the Portuguese Fortress A Famosa, an old Malaysia’s fishing village, and more. Then, wrap up the visit by heading to Jonker Street for various delectable local cuisines before going back to Kuala Lumpur.

If you’re not into outdoor adventures, you can try Eagle Landing Zipline in Genting Highlands. It’s a thrilling ride across the mall’s gap that takes you from the 4^th to 2^nd floor in a 200-meter descent. With professional safety gear and security measures, feel the adrenaline rush of defying gravity and capture the moment before you soar through the air.

Now, the fun is about to begin! Let’s make this Christmas Eve special by booking all your travel needs on Traveloka. This one-stop travel shop offers everything you desire for your vacations, including flights, hotels, and activity tickets. Besides, its convenient booking method and payment will leave you worry-free for your travel planings. Don’t wait, book your Christmas Eve on Traveloka now!