In Pictures: Kolkata’s popular cafes, hangouts and localities abuzz with festive cheer

(L-R) Childhood friends Paromita Kundu, Shazia Ahmed and Senjuti Paul have always met at Park Street during Christmas, usually sporting fun headgear. 'The vibe is amazing, we spend time together and enjoy Flury’s Christmas cake,' said Paromita

Like every year, Bow Barracks is lit up with hanging lights — all set to welcome their neighbourhood Santa, who arrives in a rickshaw

The streets along VIP Road from Lake Town to Golaghata are shining with strings of lights and large LED installations. Kolkata’s own Big Ben is also sporting rainbow colours for the season

Hindustan Park’s many cafes and adda spots are cheerfully decorated for the season, lending a festive feel to the whole neighbourhood. The lantern lights at Pancham er Adday, and their balcony seating, are perfect for #Christmaslights photo-ops

School friends Ronica Balmiki (L) and Debanjali Roy Choudhury pose in front of the unique Christmas tree at Roastery Coffee House while waiting for a table

Though fewer people were spotted visiting Bow Barracks this year, regulars still flocked to Dionne Alexander’s dumpling stall to feast on pork meatball soup and fish dumplings

Kookie Jar’s Hindustan Park outlet has a traditional festive fir accompanying the warm scent of baked goods — creating the perfect festive atmosphere as people pack sweet treats to take home

’Tis the season to catch up with friends old and new. (L-R) Apeksha, Sahil, Nishan and Vedika picked Sienna Cafe for their rendezvous. 'We’re looking forward to trying the hot chocolate. We’re definitely going to order four cups of that,' exclaimed Sahil

Marbella’s Insta quotient has gone a notch higher with the Christmas lights and decor. (L-R) Piyali, Poushali and Ameya found a spot on the sought-after bench for a photo. Next on the cafe-hopping group's list was Hammers at Park Street

Christmas celebrations in Kolkata mandatorily involve outings with family and friends. The Poush Parbon Carnival at VIP Road is back this year and revellers can be seen strolling down the brightly lit streets and feasting at the food stalls