Top 10 Things to Do in Penang On Christmas & New Year Eve

As the year comes to an end, one of the popular spots that transforms into a festive destination filled with lights, decorations and joyful celebrations is none other than Penang. If you’re planning a getaway to Penang for Christmas and New Year’s, Penang offers a perfect blend of historical charm, modern attractions and beach activities. Not sure what to do in Penang? Here are the top 10 things to do in Penang during the Christmas season and New Year's Eve.

1. Christmas Services & Carols at St. George’s Church

Source: The Star 

What better way to start your Christmas celebration than to attend a Christmas service at St. George’s Church, which is the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia or the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, a Catholic church in George Town. The Christmas carols, soothing hymns, and festive decorations create a heartwarming Christmas spirit, allowing you to embrace the true meaning of the season. 

2. Sunset & Beach Stroll at Batu Ferringhi

Source: Pexels

Celebrating the holiday season by the sea with your loved ones is one of the things to do in Penang during Christmas. Take a romantic sunset stroll along Batu Feringghi Beach, and after, enjoy a festive feast at one of the beachfront restaurants or resorts for a seaside dinner. Many restaurants and resorts host Christmas dinner, lunch and buffet as well as New Year’s dinners, buffets and parties, offering scrumptious spreads, live music and even fireworks! 

3. Night Views at Penang Hill 

Source: MyPenangHill 

If you’re up for an adventure at night, head over to Penang Hill for spectacular views of Penang. Take the funicular train up Penang Hill and admire the panoramic night views of George Town illuminated with festive lights. The SkyWalk observatory deck is also lit up during the festive season and if you’re lucky, you could even catch a live performance and experience the magic of Christmas at Penang Hill. 

4. Shop for Gifts at Queensbay Mall

Source: Queensbay Mall

No Christmas is complete without a little shopping spree! One of Penang’s finest shopping malls, Queensbay Mall, located in Bayan Lepas, comes alive during the festive season with stunning Christmas decorations and year-end sales. With over 250 outlets, you can find everything from fashion to gadgets and even artisanal gifts. It’s never too late to do your year-end shopping! 

5. Visit the TOP Penang 

Source: The TOP Penang

Another way to celebrate Christmas in Penang is with a bird’s eye view of Penang from the TOP Komtar Tower. Experience walking along the Rainbow Skywalk located at level 68, on the rooftop of Komtar Tower, featuring a glass bridge that allows visitors to walk through and observe the panoramic views of Penang. 

It is also beautifully decorated during Christmas, with twinkling lights and Christmas decorations, filled with Christmas vibes! Besides that, the observatory deck at level 65 also features a glass walkway that allows visitors to observe the stunning views. 

Book The Top Penang ticket here.

6. Hin Bus Depot Weekend Market & Art Stroll

Source: Hin Bus Depot

For a more chilled and laid-back festive outing during Christmas and New Year’s, Hin Bus Depot is a great place to hang out with friends and family. It’s a creative hub in George Town that features a vibrant art space filled with galleries, arts, and event spaces that host music gigs, theatre production, fashion events, weekend markets and more! Do check out their website before heading over to see what’s happening. 

7. Gurney Drive Hawker Feast and Seaside Promenade

Source: Gurney Drive Penang 

If you’re going to Penang for the food, head over to Gurney Drive Hawker Centre for a casual Christmas or New Year’s dinner. At this popular hawker centre, you can enjoy classic Penang street food such as char kuey teow, Penang laksa, satay, grilled seafood, and desserts like cendol and ice kacang. After your delicious feast, you can take a peaceful stroll along the Gurney seaside promenade and enjoy the lights and sea breeze. 

8. The Three Sixty Rooftop Bar (Bayview)

Source: Bayview Hotel

Known for its revolving, 360-degree views of George Town, the Three Sixty Rooftop Bar is where you can celebrate the season in style with your loved ones. The restaurant slowly rotates, offering diners panoramic views of the city. 

It’s especially stunning at night, with twinkling lights and festive vibes. Enjoy a glass of a cocktail with your loved ones here and toast to new beginnings! It’s great for couples and groups to welcome the New Year in style! 

9. NYE Countdown Parties at Hotels (Hard Rock /G Hotel / E&O)

Source: Hard Rock Hotel Penang 

Some of Penang’s top hotels like Hard Rock Hotel, G Hotel and Eastern & Oriental Hotel, host Penang’s most exciting New Year’s Eve countdown parties. At these parties, you can expect live music, DJ sets, buffet dinners, drinks and fireworks. It’s one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve with friends and family in Penang. Be sure to make a reservation early before it’s all fully booked! 

10. Watch Fireworks at Esplanade (Padang Kota Lama) / Gurney Paragon Seafront

Image alt text: Top Things to Do in Penang On Christmas & New Year Eve Fireworks Watch Spots

Source: Pexels 

If you’re looking for a spot to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Penang, The Esplanade at Padang Kota Lama is a local favourite for large crowds, live performances, a variety of food and the NYE countdown by the sea. 

It offers a scenic waterfront setting for the countdown. Another spectacular spot to celebrate NYE is the Gurney Paragon seafront, featuring live performances and fireworks, drawing large crowds to the seafront. These spots in Penang are perfect for couples and families! 

Conclusion

It’s truly a magical time to be in Penang during Christmas and New Year’s. With many things to do in Penang during the festive season, you can enjoy a laid-back celebration or something more glamorous like a party. Celebrating Christmas in Penang is sure to delight!

Make your year-end holiday stress-free and smooth by renting a car in Penang with Penangbook! Having your own vehicle allows you to travel at your own pace and gives you the freedom to explore the island. Book today and plan your holiday trip to Penang!