What are the dates for the Christmas lights in London in 2024?
The magic of the holiday season has opened its doors, and London is sparkling with a thousand lights to celebrate the festive season. Discover below the Christmas lights calendar 2024 in London, a luminous spectacle that transforms the British capital into a sparkling paradise, attracting visitors from around the world.
Whether you're a resident or a visitor, the Christmas lights in London are a sight not to be missed!
The dates for the 2024 Christmas lights in London are now all known! The article was updated on November 2, 2024.
- 2024 Christmas lights calendar in London: dates and locations
- Exploring the illuminated neighborhoods
- Winter Festival: winter magic in the heart of London
- Oxford Street: magic and solidarity on the agenda
- Carnaby Street: an immersive and luminous Christmas with « Into the Light »
- Bond Street: sparkle and elegance
- Regent Street: the "Spirit of Christmas" lights
- Piccadilly Circus: twinkling lights and Christmas magic
- St James's: traditional elegance under festive lights
- Covent Garden: traditional magic
- Seven Dials, St Martin's Courtyard, and Neal's Yard: shopping and lights
- Marylebone Village: community festivities
- Belgravia: elegance and tradition
- Kew Gardens: the winter glow of the royal gardens
- Leadenhall Market: a Christmas in the City
- Winter Wonderland: a magical winter realm at Hyde Park
- Duke of York Square: Chelsea in celebration
- The Royal Exchange: tradition and elegance
- St Katharine Docks: nautical enchantment
- Greenwich: a lantern parade and winter festivities
- Wembley Park: light, music, and festivities
- Trafalgar Square: a Norwegian gift
- The Shard: sparkling lights atop London
- Kingston-upon-Thames: festive glow at London's doorstep
2024 Christmas lights calendar in London: dates and locations
The table below presents the dates and locations of the Christmas lights in London. From shopping districts like Oxford Street and Carnaby Street to historic areas like Covent Garden and Belgravia, every corner of the city lights up to celebrate the magic of Christmas.
| 2024 Calendar | Locations |
|---|---|
| Friday, November 1 | Winter Festival at Southbank Centre |
| Monday, November 4 | Oxford Street and Bond Street |
| Thursday, November 7 | Carnaby Street, Regent Street, and St James's |
| Tuesday, November 12 | Covent Garden, Seven Dials, St Martin's Courtyard, and Neal's Yard |
| Wednesday, November 13 | Marylebone Village and Kews Gardens |
| Thursday, November 14 | Leadenhall Market and St Katharine Docks |
| Saturday, November 16 | Duke of York Square |
| Sunday, November 17 | Belgravia |
| Wednesday, November 20 | Greenwich |
| Thursday, November 21 | Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park |
| Thursday, December 5 | Trafalgar Square |
| Saturday, December 7 | Wembley Park |
Exploring the illuminated neighborhoods
Discover the magic of London during the festive season with a Christmas lights bus tour 2024. Hop on a comfortable, heated bus and be amazed by the sparkling decorations adorning the city. From the iconic Oxford Street to the charming lights of Covent Garden, every corner reveals winter wonders.
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Don't wait any longer, book your ticket and experience a magical journey through London's twinkling lights!
Winter Festival: winter magic in the heart of London
The Winter Festival at Southbank Centre is an enchanting event taking place from Friday, November 1, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025, transforming this iconic venue into a true winter wonderland. A festive atmosphere will prevail with spectacular shows, luminous artworks, and captivating activities, immersing visitors in the festive spirit of the season.
The sparkling Christmas market at Southbank, along with many other entertainments, will add a magical touch to the experience, spreading winter magic across the site. With a program rich in surprises and treats, the Winter Festival promises to brighten spirits and offer a memorable experience for all ages.
The nearest tube station is Waterloo (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines).
Oxford Street: magic and solidarity on the agenda
On Monday, November 4, 2024, the famous Oxford Street Christmas lights will be switched on by Tom Grennan, award-winning singer and songwriter, accompanied by Emily Mullen, a young patient who received transformative care at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). This event will mark the official start of the festive season in London, as thousands of white stars illuminate the capital's sky.
This year, Oxford Street partners with the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) to inspire visitors to bring a bit of festive joy. On Saturday, December 7, the street will host the « Big Day of JOY », transforming this London landmark into a bustling hub of festive activities in support of GOSH Charity. Visitors can enjoy performances, in-store activities, and unique experiences: Santa's grotto at John Lewis, the Christmas shop at Selfridges, and seasonal dishes at several partner restaurants will complete this exceptional day.
The environmentally friendly light installation is made up of over 300,000 LED stars crafted from recycled polymer, consuming 75% less energy than traditional bulbs. The lights will shine this year from 4 PM to midnight to limit their environmental impact.
Emily Mullen, who participated in the Oxford Street lights illumination, was born with a severe heart condition and received vital care at GOSH from her early days. Emily, suffering from vision loss and other complications, continues to receive care at GOSH, and each Christmas represents a moment of magic and gratitude for her and her family.
Oxford Street visitors are invited to support GOSH by donating on the gosh.org website. Thanks to your contributions, the GOSH Charity can continue to provide critically ill children with support services, essential medical equipment, pioneering research, and free accommodation for families, allowing them to spend precious moments together during the Christmas period.
The nearest tube station is Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines) - but Oxford Street is served by 3 other tube stations: Marble Arch, Bond Street, and Tottenham Court Road.
Carnaby Street: an immersive and luminous Christmas with « Into the Light »
The Christmas lights at Carnaby Street are a must-see event in the heart of London. This year, Carnaby Street presents its unique light installation "Into the Light", which will transform the street into an immersive and luminous spectacle, with light shows every hour from 12 PM to 9 PM, starting on Thursday, November 7, 2024.
On November 7, from 4 PM to 8 PM, Carnaby Street will celebrate the official inauguration of this unique installation with an exclusive event. The light switch-on will take place precisely at 6 PM, illuminating the street with over 60,000 low-energy LEDs, creating a festive and contemporary atmosphere. In partnership with the charity Global's Make Some Noise, Carnaby Street celebrates not only the holiday season but also solidarity by supporting those facing the toughest challenges.
The "Into the Light" installation, designed by the London studio Sculptivate, marks a bold evolution of Carnaby Street's traditional decorations, adopting a contemporary design that celebrates Soho's creative and rebellious spirit. It consists of light sculptures over 6 meters long, suspended above the street, and more than 60,000 energy-efficient LED bulbs. This year, the Christmas lights at Carnaby Street are part of a sustainable approach, designed to be reused over the next five years, with possible adaptations for each festive season.
The "Switch On" event will offer an exceptional evening of shopping and dining, with exclusive offers, in-store DJs, free experiences, complimentary drinks, and much more for this special night. Visitors can also enjoy the Carnaby Street x Time Out London pop-up bar for a complete festive experience.
The lights also extend to Kingly Court, where light curtains adorn the balconies, adding to the warm and festive atmosphere of the area. This captivating installation is not to be missed for those wishing to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas in London.
The magic of Christmas at Carnaby Street will continue until January 1, 2025, offering passersby a magical atmosphere throughout the festive season.
The nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines).
Bond Street: sparkle and elegance
Bond Street, renowned for its refinement and luxury boutiques, will be adorned with sumptuous lights to celebrate the festive season. These decorations will enhance the elegant architecture of the street and highlight the shop windows of high-end brands.
The Christmas lights of Bond Street will invite visitors to stroll under a luminous starry sky, creating a magical and sophisticated atmosphere. Every corner of this iconic street will shine with a soft light, reflecting the timeless charm and elegance of one of London's most prestigious shopping destinations.
The nearest tube station is Bond Street (Central and Jubilee lines).
Regent Street: the "Spirit of Christmas" lights
The famous Regent Street lights, scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 2024 and in place until Sunday, January 5, 2025, will once again mark the start of the festive season in London. This year, the theme "The Spirit of Christmas" will return to light up the sky with the iconic angels reminiscent of the 1954 decorations, transporting visitors into a timeless and magical atmosphere.
In addition to Regent Street, the light installation extends across Glasshouse Street, Swallow Street, and the sparkling Quadrant Arcade, offering a magical journey to discover. At St James's Market, an interactive wishing tree, the Wishing Tree, invites visitors to make donations to The Felix Project, an organization dedicated to feeding London's communities. Each contribution lights up the tree, adding a magical and supportive touch to the festivities.
The lights will turn on every evening from November 7, programmed on a timer to reduce energy consumption and promote a more sustainable approach.
During the "Christmas Lights Switch On" event, the avenue will be closed to traffic, allowing visitors to enjoy live music and street performances in a fully pedestrianized space for the occasion.
The nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines).
Piccadilly Circus: twinkling lights and Christmas magic
Piccadilly Circus, with its famous illuminated advertising board, will shine even brighter during the Christmas festivities. Its lights will add a festive dimension to the bustling atmosphere, enveloping visitors in a luminous and colorful halo. The constant activity and lights will make Piccadilly an essential destination to feel the vibrant pulse of London during the festive season.
Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere while exploring the nearby shops and restaurants. The lights will provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos during this special time of the year.
The nearest underground station is Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines).
St James's: traditional elegance under festive lights
The St James's district, renowned for its traditional charm, luxury shops, and art galleries, will adorn itself with Christmas lights starting from Thursday, November 7, 2024. The elegant and sophisticated decorations will highlight the refined architecture of the area, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Visitors can stroll under an illuminated sky, discovering the splendor of St James's during this enchanting period.
The nearest underground stations are Green Park (Jubilee, Piccadilly, and Victoria lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines).
Covent Garden: traditional magic
The Christmas lights at Covent Garden will return with brilliance this year starting from Tuesday, November 12, 2024, with the much-anticipated event "Christmas Lights Switch On" officially marking the start of the festivities. From 4 PM to 8 PM, this inaugural evening will offer exclusive shopping and dining deals in Covent Garden and Seven Dials, with special promotions in stores and festive in-store experiences. The highlight of the evening will take place at 5:30 PM on the West Piazza, with the spectacular lighting of the Christmas decorations and the majestic 18-meter tree, adorned with over 30,000 sparkling lights.
Building on last year's success, the traditional Christmas decorations - including more than 40 giant bells adorned with bows, 12 large baubles, and 8 rotating mirror balls - will make their grand return in the iconic market building, transforming Covent Garden into a true visual enchantment.
Throughout November and December, Covent Garden will offer a festive immersion with a variety of activities and enchanting decor:
- Wonder Wood on James Street will offer a magical walk, perfect for festive selfies, until early January.
- The Santa's sleigh on the West Piazza, a traditional 1884 sleigh refurbished and hand-painted by British artist James Gemmill, will be available as the perfect photo backdrop throughout the season (restricted access from 9 PM to 9 AM).
- The Christmas markets Apple Market and Jubilee Market will offer a wide selection of handcrafted and vintage gifts for unique gift ideas.
Visitors can warm up by enjoying mulled wine at various stalls, explore the pop-up bar "Miracle at Henrietta" to taste retro-style festive cocktails (available from November 11 to December 23), and savor seasonal menus showcasing flavors from around the world at Seven Dials Market.
Finally, for a complete winter experience, head to SKATE at Somerset House from November 13 to January 12, where one of London's most beloved ice rinks will offer skating lessons, DJ sessions, and seasonal specialties to complete your festive immersion.
The nearest underground station is Covent Garden (Piccadilly line).
Seven Dials, St Martin's Courtyard, and Neal's Yard: shopping and lights
The Christmas lights at Seven Dials, St Martin's Courtyard, and Neal's Yard will be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, alongside those of Covent Garden, transforming these areas into an enchanting light spectacle. This synchronization will allow visitors to enjoy a festive and harmonious stroll between these iconic London areas.
From this date, visitors can wander through the cobbled and illuminated streets of Seven Dials, discover the charming shops of St Martin's Courtyard, and marvel at the colorful lights of Neal's Yard. The festive decorations will add a warm and magical atmosphere, perfect for a shopping outing or a simple walk to soak up the Christmas spirit.
Whether you're there to explore the historic alleys, enjoy the many shops and restaurants, or capture memorable moments, Seven Dials, St Martin's Courtyard, and Neal's Yard will offer a magical and unforgettable experience this Christmas season.
The nearest tube stations are Covent Garden (Piccadilly line) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines).
Marylebone Village: community festivities
As part of the year-end celebrations in London, Marylebone Village invites you to its annual event "Merry Marylebone" and the inauguration of the Christmas lights. This year, the event will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 3 PM to 8 PM, promising an unforgettable evening with festive activities, a craft market, concerts, late-night shopping, and much more.
The main stage will once again be located on Devonshire Street, at the heart of the village, where numerous musical and choral performances will enliven the evening. Jo Good, BBC presenter and neighborhood resident, will be the master of ceremonies for the lighting launch at 6 PM, accompanied by actor Martin Freeman, special guest for this edition.
Throughout the evening, Marylebone Village will offer interactive and festive activities: Christmas bauble and wreath-making workshops, Santa's grotto, and a Ferris wheel to delight young and old alike. The craft market stalls will offer comforting street food and seasonal specialties, as well as unique creations, ideal for original Christmas gifts.
The village's flagship shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants will also participate in this celebration with exclusive offers, festive experiences, and specially crafted menus for the occasion.
During this event, the streets of Marylebone Village will light up, marking the start of the festive season in this charming central London neighborhood.
It's a Christmas celebration not to be missed!
The nearest tube stations are Baker Street (Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Jubilee, and Metropolitan lines) and Marylebone (Bakerloo line).
Belgravia: elegance and tradition
On Sunday, November 17, 2024, Belgravia will celebrate the lighting of its Christmas lights with a festive day from 11 AM to 4 PM on Elizabeth Street. This event promises to enchant young and old with the presence of Santa Claus, his elves, and reindeer, as well as iconic characters like The Snowman from Sadler's Wells and dancers from The Nutcracker, the famous Christmas ballet.
Visitors can enjoy musical performances by the London Gay Men's Chorus, the Fulham Brass Band, and the steelpan group Solid Steel, adding a joyful and festive atmosphere. At Eccleston Yards, a Christmas market will offer unique gift ideas, mulled wine, and seasonal menus in a warm atmosphere.
The lights, which will illuminate Elizabeth Street, Motcomb Street, Eccleston Yards, Halkin Arcade, and Pimlico Road, will also mark the launch of the "Christmas Trail of Cheer". This festive trail will showcase light installations and creations by renowned florists from the region, transforming Belgravia into a true Christmas spectacle.
This event is a perfect opportunity to discover the elegance and magic of Christmas in Belgravia, a neighborhood where tradition and festivities meet in an enchanting setting. Don't miss this unique celebration!
The nearest tube stations are Sloane Square (Circle and District lines) and Victoria (Circle, District, and Victoria lines).
Kew Gardens: the winter glow of the royal gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Gardens invite you to discover the enchanting event « Christmas at Kew » from Wednesday, November 13, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 4:20 PM to 10 PM. This illuminated walk will lead you through sparkling tunnels, enchanting reflections by the lake, and majestic trees wrapped in vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere for both young and old.
Last entries will be at 7 PM through the Brentford Gate (6:20 PM on December 24), 7:20 PM through the Elizabeth Gate (6:20 PM on December 24), and 8 PM through the Victoria Plaza (7 PM on December 24).
It's an immersive winter experience that highlights the beauty of the royal gardens, seen in a whole new light under the glow of the Christmas illuminations.
During your visit, don't miss greeting Santa Claus and enjoying the special activities.
On December 24 (Christmas Eve), the event will exceptionally end at 9 PM. Entry slots will be reduced accordingly at all gates.
The nearest tube station is Kew Gardens (District and Overground lines).
Leadenhall Market: a Christmas in the City
Leadenhall Market, this historic market in the heart of the City of London, is adorned with its finest illuminations to celebrate the festive season. The festivities will begin on Thursday, November 14, 2024 with the market's illumination by the Lord Mayor of London during a spectacular ceremony starting at 5:30 PM. The Lord Mayor's speech and the lighting of the illuminations are scheduled for 6 PM, revealing the full splendor of Leadenhall Market with a giant Christmas tree over 5 meters tall, adorned with changing LED lights. This majestic tree will stand under the incredible Victorian starry atrium that the market is famous for.
In addition to this sparkling tree, visitors can admire large decorative balls and fir garlands spread throughout the market, creating a festive and warm atmosphere. The magical light tunnel, located at Beehive Passage, will also make its grand return to illuminate visitors with joy and magic.
The Christmas festivities at Leadenhall Market don't stop there! In December, the market will host musical events throughout the day and evening, offering visitors traditional Christmas carols and festive melodies in an enchanting setting. Take the opportunity to enjoy a pint in one of the market's pubs while being serenaded by the iconic songs of Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé.
With its rich and varied program, Leadenhall Market will once again capture the Christmas spirit, offering visitors a festive and memorable experience in a historic and picturesque setting.
The nearest tube stations are Bank (Central, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines) and Monument (District and Circle lines).
Winter Wonderland: a magical winter realm at Hyde Park
The Winter Wonderland event at Hyde Park will take place from Thursday, November 21, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025. For six magical weeks, you can enjoy a variety of attractions, activities, shows, as well as a diverse gourmet offering of food and drinks, perfect for spending unforgettable moments with your loved ones.
Winter Wonderland will be open from Monday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 10 PM, offering maximum flexibility to plan your visit. This event promises an immersive and festive experience, perfect for creating enchanting memories during this holiday season!
Tickets are already available, and it is advisable to book early to ensure your access. When booking, it is necessary to choose a time slot for entry. However, once inside the funfair, you can stay as long as you wish to fully enjoy all the attractions and activities.
The nearest tube stations are Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line) and Marble Arch (Central line).
Duke of York Square: Chelsea in celebration
The Christmas celebrations in Chelsea will kick off on Saturday, November 16, 2024 with the lighting of the festive lights. At 5 PM, Santa Claus, accompanied by a local child, will officially start the season by switching on the lights. This event will feature a 360-degree show with music and artificial snow, creating a magical atmosphere for all visitors.
Throughout the day, festive performances will enliven 3 stages spread across the neighborhood, while roaming entertainment along Sloane Street will add to the excitement. More than 50 shops and restaurants in Duke of York Square will offer exclusive deals and special in-store activities, allowing visitors to combine shopping with festivities.
This year's decor includes golden and copper light arches on Sloane Street, inspired by the historic mulberry trees of Cadogan Place gardens, as well as trees lining the avenue adorned with over 312,000 energy-efficient LED bulbs. A towering 11-meter Christmas tree, decorated with shimmering golden bows and spectacular 1.5-meter wreaths, will stand at the center of Duke of York Square, adding a magical touch to the entire neighborhood.
Whether you're coming to do your Christmas shopping, enjoy the entertainment, or simply soak up the holiday spirit, Chelsea and its lights promise a memorable experience for the whole family.
The nearest tube station is Sloane Square (Circle and District lines).
The Royal Exchange: tradition and elegance
As the holiday season approaches, The Royal Exchange, a symbol of elegance and financial tradition in London, will be adorned with twinkling lights and host a majestic Christmas tree within its historic setting. The tree lighting ceremony, scheduled for mid-November, will mark the official start of the Christmas festivities at this prestigious venue, attracting residents and visitors to admire the splendor of the decorated tree and the grand surrounding architecture.
This ceremony is a special moment where past and present meet, celebrating the magic of the season in a setting that embodies the city's rich history. The soft, shimmering lights of the tree will reflect off the ancient stones and elegant shop windows, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It's an invitation to take the time to appreciate the beauty of the season, community ties, and the simple joy brought by the glow of the Christmas lights.
For the occasion, The Royal Exchange will host an outdoor Christmas market, offering mulled wine and mince pies to immerse visitors in the festive spirit. Guides will also be available to help organize events and plan the ultimate Christmas celebration.
Additionally, the Red Eight Gallery will present the exhibition « The Shakespeare Portraits » from November 18 to December 6, 2024, an innovative collection of 10 living portraits featuring some of the greatest Shakespearean actors of our time.
The many luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and local craft exhibitors within The Royal Exchange will offer an experience combining the traditional charm of Christmas with the excellence of commerce and gastronomy, making each visit a true celebration of the festive season.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas in one of London's most iconic locations.
The nearest tube stations are Bank (Central, Northern, Waterloo & City lines and the DLR) and Monument (Circle and District lines).
St Katharine Docks: nautical enchantment
Each year, St Katharine Docks, the only marina in the heart of London, transforms into a luminous haven to celebrate the festive season. This year, the Christmas lights will be inaugurated on Thursday, November 14, 2024 during a community event held at Marble Quay. This magical evening will feature performances by school choirs and a special guest distributing gifts to children, adding a warm and friendly touch to the atmosphere.
To extend the holiday magic, a Christmas market will stretch along the waterfront from Friday, November 22 to Sunday, December 22, 2024, offering a variety of unique handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats from local vendors. This market is an ideal destination to start your Christmas shopping while enjoying a festive and authentic atmosphere.
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Visitors can also participate in the charity initiative « Kids Out Giving Tree », by selecting a tag from the large Christmas tree and giving a gift valued between £5 and £20. This action aims to support children affected by domestic violence, adding a charitable dimension to the celebrations.
With its twinkling lights, enchanting reflections on the water, and festive traditions, St Katharine Docks offers an unforgettable Christmas experience, combining beauty, community spirit, and nautical festivities in a unique historical setting.
The nearest tube stations are Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) and Tower Gateway (DLR).
Greenwich: a lantern parade and winter festivities
The Christmas season in Greenwich will officially begin with the famous Lantern Parade and the lighting of the Greenwich Market on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. This event gathers children from local schools who parade with handmade lanterns around the Old Royal Naval College, passing through the gardens of the Cutty Sark to the historic Georgian market of Greenwich, where the festivities will culminate with the Christmas lights switch-on. This magical moment will be hosted by the Mayor of Greenwich, David from Channel 5's Milkshake, and the winner of a contest.
The day's festivities will include:
- Shopping and dining at Greenwich Market from 10 am to 6 pm with a multitude of stalls and culinary specialties from around the world.
- Victorian Christmas carols performed by the Honor Oak Choir from Sing Space from 2 pm to 3 pm and from 3 pm to 3:45 pm.
- Lantern Parade departure at 4 pm from the Old Royal Naval College, accompanied by the band Danger Goat, arriving at Greenwich Market at 4:50 pm.
- Market lighting at 5 pm with a festive countdown in the presence of special guests.
- Musical ambiance from 5:10 pm to 5:40 pm with the band Danger Goat, followed by another set of Victorian carols until 6:15 pm.
Sparkle in the Park also returns this year in the magical setting of Charlton Park from Thursday, November 28 to Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 4:30 pm to 9 pm. This winter wonderland, co-created with the residents of Greenwich, will feature a Christmas market, a funfair, shows, and performances by local choirs.
A quiet hour, specially designed for children and adults with special educational needs and sensory sensitivities, will take place on December 1 from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm, with adapted conditions such as reduced noise and flashing lights.
To complete the atmosphere, a cozy Winter Tavern will be set up in Charlton House, where visitors can immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit with festive drinks. The younger ones can also meet Mrs. Claus in an immersive experience.
The surrounding town centers, including Eltham (on November 16) and Woolwich (on November 23), will also participate in the festivities with local stalls, entertainment, and their own Christmas lights, from 12 pm to 6 pm.
The nearest tube station is North Greenwich (Jubilee line).
Wembley Park: light, music, and festivities
Wembley Park is transforming into a must-visit destination to celebrate the holiday season with a series of festive events throughout December.
On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the Sound Shell will host "A Global Christmas”, a free concert from 1 PM to 6 PM. This event will showcase festive musical traditions from around the world, featuring performances ranging from Caribbean steelpan rhythms to Motown soul classics, Tamil carols, and traditional English Christmas hymns.
The Wembley Park Christmas markets will be held every weekend in December, offering a unique selection of handcrafted gifts, homemade products, and culinary delights. Located on Market Square and Olympic Way, these markets will provide a warm and sparkling atmosphere, perfect for your Christmas shopping.
The London Designer Outlet (LDO) will add a magical touch with Santa Claus meet-and-greets every weekend, an interactive trail for children, and discounts of up to 80% on a wide variety of brands. The center will be decorated with a large Christmas tree, vibrant light decorations, and selfie spots, all accompanied by festive music.
Finally, BOXPARK Wembley will offer festive-themed evenings, Christmas karaoke, Bingo Lingo sessions, and jazz concerts in a lively and friendly atmosphere, perfect for extending the holiday magic.
Wembley Park offers a complete and immersive experience, combining music, shopping, gastronomy, and lights to make your holiday season unforgettable.
The nearest tube station is Wembley Park (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines).
Trafalgar Square: a Norwegian gift
The Christmas lights at Trafalgar Square will begin with the lighting of the traditional Christmas tree on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 6 PM. This iconic tree, gifted annually since 1947 by Norway as a token of friendship, celebrates its 77th anniversary this year. A strong symbol of the relationship between the two nations, this majestic tree is illuminated by hundreds of white lights arranged in a traditional manner, adding a timeless touch to the festive spirit.
The lighting ceremony will be accompanied by Christmas carols performed by the choir of St-Martin-in-the-Fields and the Regent Hall Band of The Salvation Army, creating a magical and warm atmosphere in the heart of London.
Meanwhile, the Trafalgar Square Christmas market will open on Saturday, November 9, 2024 and welcome visitors until Thursday, January 2, 2025, every day from 11 AM to 9 PM (except Christmas Day). With free entry, this market is an ideal destination to explore craft stalls, taste festive specialties, and immerse yourself in the magical Christmas atmosphere. The iconic location of Trafalgar Square also makes it a perfect starting point to admire the surrounding lights in the area.
The nearest tube stations are Charing Cross (Bakerloo and Northern lines) and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines).
The Shard: sparkling lights atop London
As the year-end festivities approach, The Shard, the tallest skyscraper in the UK, will transform into a luminous beacon celebrating the festive season. The top 20 floors of the building will be illuminated by 575 eco-friendly LEDs, offering light shows visible from over 40 miles away.
Each year, The Shard's light show features themed sequences, often inspired by popular Christmas carols, creating a magical atmosphere. The show will begin in mid-November and continue until New Year's, with varied sequences every hour.
Visitors can admire these illuminations from various points in the city. For an immersive experience, the The View from The Shard observatory will offer a panoramic view of London, allowing you to appreciate the city's festive lights and the unique spectacle of The Shard.
This luminous celebration is a must-see for those wishing to experience the magic of Christmas from a spectacular angle, adding a fairy-tale touch to the London skyline.
The nearest tube station is London Bridge (Northern and Jubilee lines).
Kingston-upon-Thames: festive glow at London's doorstep
As the end-of-year holidays approach, Kingston-upon-Thames will transform into a true winter wonderland. The streets and historic buildings will be adorned withtwinkling lights and sparkling decorations, creating a magical atmosphere inviting celebration.
The Kingston Christmas Market will be held from Thursday, November 14, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025, turning the town center into a festive village. More than 40 wooden chalets will offer a variety of unique handcrafted gifts and culinary delights. The adjacent Alpine Village will feature activities such as curling lanes, campfires to warm up by, and a vintage carousel for the younger ones.
Visitors can also take part in the « Nutcracker Trail », a themed treasure hunt throughout the town, with prizes to be won. Local choirs and musical groups will enliven the evenings, adding a musical touch to the festive atmosphere.
For a complete experience, a stroll along the illuminated Thames is a must, or a break in one of the city's many cozy cafes and pubs. Families can also meet Santa Claus in his grotto, offering children an unforgettable experience.
The Christmas lights in Kingston-upon-Thames are a cherished tradition that brings joy and wonder to the local community and visitors. It's a great way to celebrate the holiday spirit and create memorable moments with your loved ones in a picturesque and festive setting.
The nearest station is Kingston (National Rail), accessible in 30 minutes from Waterloo.
When Christmas approaches, London wraps itself in a shimmering coat of lights, transforming the British capital into a luminous fairy tale that captures the essence of the festive season. From the bustling shopping streets of Oxford Street and Regent Street, to the picturesque neighborhoods of Belgravia and Marylebone, and the enchanting Kew Gardens and the legendary Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, every corner of London offers a unique and memorable experience.
The Christmas lights are more than just a tradition; they are the beating heart of the city, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit. Whether it's admiring the creative window displays, strolling under a starry sky of lights, or participating in community festivities, London in winter is a celebration of joy, community, and magic.
This Christmas lights guide 2024 gives you an overview of the many events and places that light up to celebrate the season. So, wrap up warm, head out, and explore the luminous magnificence of London during this festive period. Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor passing through, London has something to offer to make your Christmas season shine!