On what dates does London light up for the Christmas holidays?

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 all over the world.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, the Christmas lights in London are a sight not to be missed!

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.

Exploring the illuminated neighborhoods

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Winter Festival: winter magic in the heart of London

The Winter Festival at the 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 reign 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 numerous 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.

Oxford Street: magic and solidarity on display

Saturday, November 2, 2024 (date to be confirmed) marks the start of the Christmas festivities on Oxford Street, the longest shopping street in Europe (90 flagship stores over 2.4 km), with the launch of its world-famous Christmas lights display. Last year, the street partnered with the children's charity Starlight for the "Stars for Starlight" initiative, inviting visitors to sponsor a star in the iconic light installations. Each sponsored star helped improve the hospital stay of children during the Christmas period, thanks to the power of play that boosts their well-being and resilience throughout their treatment.

Dee Corsi, CEO of the New West End Company, and Cathy Gilman, CEO of Starlight, expressed their enthusiasm for this charitable collaboration and the opportunity for everyone to participate in this noble cause while celebrating the magic of Christmas on Oxford Street.

Last year's light display also highlighted Oxford Street's commitment to sustainability, with light installations made from recycled polymer and featuring over 300,000 LED stars, making them 75% more energy-efficient than standard lights.

As part of the "Feel The Magic" campaign, Oxford Street transformed into a true festive paradise, offering numerous surprises and enchanting experiences throughout the season. The "Magic Days" on Oxford Street, returning this year, will see brands and stores offering exclusive Christmas deals, gifts, and unique experiences each week, adding an extra touch of magic to the Christmas shopping experience this season.

Visitors are encouraged to discover the magnificent lighting throughout the 8 weeks leading up to Christmas. The enchantment of these lights, free for all, will be complemented by several festive activities on the street and in stores during the Christmas months, promising a joyful atmosphere for those coming to shop, dine, or explore the surroundings of Oxford Street.

Carnaby Street: a colorful journey

The Christmas lights at Carnaby Street are a must-see event in the vibrant heart of London. This year, the traditional "Switch On" event marking the start of these lights is scheduled for Friday, November 8, 2024 (date to be confirmed), from 4 PM to 8 PM. Each year, Carnaby Street is adorned with new lights, creating a breathtaking visual display that attracts both locals and visitors from around the world. Last year's event, named "Carnaby Universe", transformed the street into a captivating light show, reflecting the creativity and innovation that characterize this iconic London neighborhood.

Carnaby Street is renowned for offering some of the most creative and original Christmas light installations in the city. On this special occasion, the street transforms into a magical universe, where every light, every color, and every detail is designed to amaze and inspire dreams. The surrounding shops also join in the festive excitement, with carefully decorated windows, special offers, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The "Switch On" event at Carnaby Street is more than just a lighting ceremony; it's a true celebration marking the start of the festive season. The street comes alive with concerts, performances, and other activities, making this event a moment of sharing and joy. The lights will remain on until Wednesday, January 1, 2025 (date to be confirmed), allowing passersby to enjoy the magical Christmas atmosphere throughout the festive season.

On Friday, November 8 (date to be confirmed), Carnaby Street will light up brilliantly, inaugurating the holiday season with flair. Whether you're a regular or a newcomer, the Christmas magic at Carnaby Street is a spectacle not to be missed.

Bond Street: sparkle and elegance

Bond Street, known for its elegance and luxury boutiques, lights up sumptuously, highlighting the architectural richness and sophistication of the shop windows.

The Bond Street lights will be an invitation to stroll among the high-end shops, under a shower of twinkling stars, adding a touch of magic to your shopping experience. Every corner of this historic street will be bathed in soft and elegant light, reflecting the timeless charm of this part of London.

Regent Street: the spirit of Christmas

The lights on Regent Street, scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 2024 (date to be confirmed) and in place until Friday, January 3, 2025 (date to be confirmed), will transport visitors back in time with their famous angels, named "Christmas Spirit", reminiscent of the 1954 decorations.

The "Christmas Lights Switch On" event will be a festive celebration, likely presided over by celebrities, with live music and street performances, in an avenue cleared of cars for the occasion.

Piccadilly Circus: twinkling lights and Christmas magic

Piccadilly Circus, with its famous luminous advertising sign, 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 animation and illuminations will make Piccadilly an essential spot 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.

St James's: traditional elegance under festive lights

The district of St James's, with its traditional charm, renowned for its luxury shops and art galleries, will be adorned with festive lights highlighting its architectural elegance and refined boutiques. The Christmas lights in this area will be elegant and sophisticated, reflecting the high-end character of St James's. The soft glow of the illuminations will add a warm and inviting atmosphere, evoking the rich history of the district while celebrating the festive season.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll under a starry sky of illuminations, discovering the tranquil grace of St James's during this enchanting period.

Covent Garden: traditional magic

The Christmas lights at Covent Garden will be in place from Wednesday, November 6, 2024, to Friday, January 3, 2025 (dates to be confirmed), transforming this iconic location into a magical light spectacle.

Last year, for the first time in nearly a decade, Covent Garden unveiled a new Christmas installation inspired by traditional golden bells. The event featured over 40 giant bells with bows, 12 giant baubles, and 8 spinning mirror balls, all displayed in the iconic market building. More than 140,000 LEDs lit up the streets, with 30,000 more illuminating a gigantic 18-meter Christmas tree in the Piazza and Seven Dials, adding a magical atmosphere to the entire area.

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 Thursday, November 7, 2024 (date to be confirmed), transforming the area into a fascinating light show. Residents and visitors can stroll through the beautifully illuminated streets and squares, creating memorable Christmas memories.

For the Christmas shopping event on Sunday, November 17, 2024 (date to be confirmed), a festive evening is organized with an exceptional 20% discount in over 120 shops, bars, and restaurants. There will be free activities like wreath-making and festive street food.

The sparkling lights will add a festive touch to your shopping experience.

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 take place. Jo Good, a BBC presenter and local resident, will return as the master of ceremonies for the lighting ceremony at 6 PM, alongside a celebrity whose name will be announced soon.

Throughout the evening, various interactive and festive activities will be offered in the village: Christmas bauble and wreath-making workshops, Santa's grotto, and a Ferris wheel. The craft market stalls will offer comforting street food, seasonal treats, and handmade creations, perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts.

The flagship shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants of Marylebone Village will also participate in the event with exclusive offers, festive experiences, and specially crafted menus for the occasion.

During this event, the streets of Marylebone Village will be illuminated, marking the start of the festive season in this charming central London neighborhood.

It's a Christmas celebration not to be missed! More details on the entertainment and special seasonal offers will be announced soon.

Belgravia: elegance and tradition

On Sunday, November 17, 2024 (date to be confirmed), Belgravia will celebrate the Christmas light switch-on. The event will feature Christmas carols, a pop-up Christmas market, and various festive treats. The lights will brighten Elizabeth Street, Motcomb Street, Eccleston Yards, Halkin Arcade, and Pimlico Road. There will also be a roaming concert by the London Gay Men's Chorus, appearances by Santa Claus and his reindeer, and a Christmas market at Eccleston Yards.

The event will also mark the launch of Belgravia's "Christmas Trail of Cheer", featuring festive installations created by renowned local florists.

Kew Gardens: the winter glow of the royal gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew Gardens invite you to discover the magical event "Christmas at Kew" from Wednesday, November 13, 2024, to Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 4:20 PM to 10 PM. This illuminated trail will lead you through sparkling tunnels, enchanting reflections by the lake, and majestic trees wrapped in vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere for young and old alike.

Last entries will be at 7 PM via Brentford Gate (6:20 PM on December 24), 7:20 PM via Elizabeth Gate (6:20 PM on December 24), and 8 PM via Victoria Plaza (7 PM on December 24).

It's an immersive winter experience that showcases the beauty of the royal gardens in a whole new light under the Christmas illuminations.

Leadenhall Market: a Christmas in The City

The Leadenhall Market, this historic market in the heart of the City of London, adorns itself with beautiful lights to celebrate the festive season. In 2024, the festivities will begin on Thursday, November 14 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 decorations are scheduled for 6 PM, unveiling 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 the 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 iconic songs from 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.

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. Over 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 creating unforgettable moments with your loved ones.

Winter Wonderland will be open from Monday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 10 PM, providing maximum flexibility to plan your visit. This event promises an immersive and festive experience, perfect for creating enchanting memories during the holiday season!

Duke of York Square: Chelsea in celebration

The Christmas celebrations take off at Duke of York Square on Saturday, November 16, 2024 (date to be confirmed), with a whole day dedicated to the lighting of festive lights in Chelsea. For this special occasion, a portion of King's Road will be transformed into a pedestrian zone between Sloane Square and Walpole Street.

The magic continues on the weekend of Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1 (dates to be confirmed), where over 50 shops and restaurants at Duke of York Square will unveil attractive offers and promotions. The festive agenda will include carriage rides, in-store activities, and a gourmet gift market animated by choirs performing traditional Christmas carols. The decor will be enriched by magical installations, including a luminous forest composed of silver birches and white magnolias, as well as an imposing 11-meter Christmas tree adorned with shimmering golden bows and spectacular 1.5-meter wreaths.

The Cadogan estates, encompassing Sloane Street, Duke of York Square, and Sloane Square, will be enhanced by elegant star-shaped light arrangements. The 2-meter sparkling Christmas trees, the work of MK Illumination, and the magnificent cross-street illuminations will provide the perfect backdrop for memorable selfies.

The Royal Exchange: tradition and elegance

Every year, as the festive season approaches, The Royal Exchange, a symbol of London's elegance and financial tradition, is adorned with twinkling lights and hosts a majestic Christmas tree within its historic precincts. The tree lighting event marks the official start of Christmas festivities at this prestigious venue, attracting residents and visitors to admire the splendor of the decorated tree and the grand architecture surrounding it.

The lighting ceremony is a moment of togetherness where the past meets the present, celebrating the magic of the season in a setting that embodies the city's rich history. The soft, shimmering lights of the tree reflect off the ancient stone and elegant shop windows, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It's an invitation to take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the season, community ties, and the simple joy that the glow of Christmas lights brings.

The event also offers an opportunity to explore the many luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and local craft exhibitors residing within the Royal Exchange. It's an experience that combines the traditional charm of Christmas with the excellence of commerce and gastronomy, making each visit a celebration of the festive season.

For Christmas 2024, The Royal Exchange hosts an outdoor Christmas market offering mulled wine and mince pies to get you into the festive spirit. They also provide guides to organize your event and plan the ultimate Christmas celebration.

Exhibitions at the Red Eight Gallery and a women's art festival are also featured in November.

St Katharine Docks: nautical enchantment

Every year, St Katharine Docks transforms into a luminous haven to celebrate the festive season. As Christmas approaches, the docks light up with a thousand lights, creating a magical atmosphere that reflects the Christmas spirit. Visitors can stroll along the docks, admiring the twinkling lights adorning the trees and surrounding buildings. The reflections of the illuminations on the water add to the beauty of the spectacle, offering a truly enchanting experience.

The Christmas lights at St Katharine Docks, located near Tower Bridge in London, are a must-see spectacle. This year, the grand "Switch On" event will take place on Thursday, November 21, 2024 (date to be confirmed), marking the start of the festive season in this historic and picturesque area.

The event attracts residents and visitors each year who come to enjoy the joyful atmosphere and start their Christmas shopping in an enchanted setting. Don't miss this annual tradition and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the holidays during your visit to St Katharine Docks!

Greenwich: a luminous parade

In Greenwich, the event "Sparkle in the Park" will take place from Thursday, November 28 to Sunday, December 1, 2024 (dates to be confirmed), from 4:30 PM to 9 PM, at Avery Hill park.

This event will transform the park into a wonderful winter realm, with a Christmas market, a funfair, and performances by local choirs. The historic winter garden will also be illuminated.

The Luminaze: light and innovation

From Saturday, November 30, 2024, to Thursday, January 2, 2025 (dates to be confirmed), Wembley Park transforms into a festive paradise. Visitors can marvel at "The Luminaze", an illuminated wall maze, and enjoy festive markets every weekend in December, offering a selection of local crafts. Winter melodies will resonate in the park with live choir performances every weekend, adding a joyful note to the atmosphere.

Whether it's to savor a festive meal, do some Christmas shopping, or immerse yourself in luminous art, Wembley Park offers an enchanted winter getaway, making the holiday season unforgettable.

Trafalgar Square: a Norwegian gift

The Christmas lights at Trafalgar Square will begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree on Saturday, December 7, 2024 (date to be confirmed) at 6 PM. During this event, the traditional Christmas tree, a gift from Norway to the city of London, will be illuminated, symbolizing the friendship between the two nations and marking the start of the Christmas festivities in the British capital. This tree, the largest installed each year in London, will be the main attraction of the square, lit by hundreds of bulbs.

In parallel, the Trafalgar Square Christmas market will be open from Sunday, November 10, 2024, to Thursday, January 2, 2025 (dates to be confirmed), every day from 11 AM to 9 PM (except on Christmas Day when it will be closed). Admission to the market is free. It is also a prime spot to admire the Christmas lights in the surrounding streets.

The Shard: twinkling lights atop London

The Christmas lights 2024 at The Shard promise to twinkle in the London sky, offering a dazzling light show. The building's exterior facade lights up brilliantly, reflecting the city's festive spirit. Visitors can admire the panoramic view from the Shard observatory, The View from The Shard, while enjoying the festive lights that add a magical touch to London's skyline. This unique experience is not to be missed for those who wish to experience the magic of Christmas in London from a new and spectacular angle.

Kingston-upon-Thames: festive glow at London's doorstep

For the Christmas lights in Kingston-upon-Thames, get ready to be amazed by the holiday magic in this charming suburb of London. Each year, the town lights up with dazzling decorations and sparkling Christmas trees that transform the urban landscape into a winter wonderland. The streets and historic buildings of Kingston are enhanced by twinkling garlands, festive ornaments, and colorful projections that create a magical atmosphere and invite celebration.

Kingston-upon-Thames also offers a variety of activities and festive events during the Christmas season. You can enjoy a winter stroll along the Thames, explore traditional Christmas markets, or warm up with a hot drink in one of the town's many welcoming cafes and pubs. Families can also enjoy festive rides, Christmas craft workshops, and of course, a visit to Santa Claus that is sure to delight the little ones.

The Christmas lights in Kingston-upon-Thames are a cherished tradition that brings joy and wonder to the local community and visitors from the region. It's a great way to celebrate the holiday spirit and create memorable moments with your loved ones in a picturesque and festive setting.

As 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 and Regent Street, to the picturesque neighborhoods of Belgravia and Marylebone, through the enchanted gardens of Kew 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 shop windows, 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 has given you a glimpse of the many events and places that light up to celebrate the season. So, wrap up warmly, 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!