London’s streets come alive with Christmas lights from early November through to early January. By then, the city’s famous Oxford Street transforms into a winter wonderland, with shimmering decorations lighting up the entire area. As the festive season approaches, London 2026 promises to be no different, with iconic locations such as Regent Street, featuring its beautiful trumpet-playing angels, and Leicester Square, shining brighter than ever.
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, hopping on a Christmas lights bus tour is a fantastic way to see the best of London’s illuminated streets.
Even if you’re a Scrooge, you can’t help but feel the magical lights of London’s Christmas spirit wrapping around you. From the Christmas trees lining every street to the twinkling decorations, each area offers something unique.
Whether you’re strolling through the glowing streets of Carnaby Street with its themed displays or visiting places decked out in festive light displays, the city’s Christmas glow never fails to impress. The season really kicks off with the lights-on event, turning the city into a dazzling display of festive cheer.
As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter settles in, Christmas time in London feels more enchanting than ever. The festive season is a time when the whole city glows—whether it’s the charming tinsel-covered trees or the strings of lights lining the streets. With so many locations to visit.
It’s no wonder people flock to see the Christmas lights turned on every year. No matter where you are, the holiday magic of London will surely warm your heart this holiday season.
Do Christmas Lights Go On in London – The Short Answer
London’s streets sparkle with Christmas lights from November to January, with Oxford Street and Regent Street offering iconic displays. Landmarks like Carnaby, Covent Garden, and Chelsea are adorned with festive decorations. Popular areas host Christmas light switch-on events, such as Regent Street and St James’s, featuring the Spirit of Christmas angels. Carnaby’s modern, eco-friendly lights and Covent Garden’s grand displays are highlights.
Areas like Marylebone and Old Spitalfields Market bring community celebrations, while landmarks like the Churchill Arms transform with thousands of lights. The London Eye’s festive show and window displays at Harrods and Selfridges add to the Christmas cheer. These lights create a magical holiday atmosphere, making London a top festive destination.
Regent Street and St James’s Christmas lights 2026
London’s famous Regent Street will light up with its iconic festive glow-up on Thursday, 6 November 2026. Though in recent years the lights switched on without much of a fanfare, the streets will still sparkle with excitement.
As the Spirit of Christmas angels glisten above Regent Street and St James’s, the atmosphere will feel magical. You can also explore nearby areas like Piccadilly, Jermyn Street, and even Glasshouse Street, which will all join the holiday cheer with their own set of Christmas lights.
The holiday charm continues in St James’s Market, where the Wishing Tree will return after its debut last year. It will come to twinkling life when you donate to The Felix Project, adding an extra layer of joy to the experience.
With over 300,000 lights in the entire display, including low-energy LEDs, the holiday glow will shine bright across the district. These lights, set to a timer, will only stay on for a few key hours each evening, making the sight even more special when they turn on, creating a beautiful scene in the winter magic.
As you walk through these streets, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit take over with the festive decorations lighting up every corner. The combination of Christmas trees, the illuminated streets, and holiday lights will fill you with excitement for the holiday season.
It’s the perfect time to soak in the festive displays, feel the Christmas glow, and enjoy the seasonal lights that make London even more enchanting during Christmas time.
Carnaby Christmas lights 2026
Carnaby is known for its unique Christmas lights, and in 2026, the lights-on event will shine even brighter. Starting from Thursday, 6 November 2026, the pedestrianized shopping street will light up with stunning illuminated street displays.
The lights feature six-meter-long sculptural light forms made of 60,000 energy-efficient LEDs, creating a festive and eco-friendly vibe. Expect these to continue to glow for the Christmas season, with the new seasonal lights programmed for adjustments and new features each year. These dazzling displays bring holiday cheer to the district, offering a blend of tradition and innovation.
For 2026, Carnaby’s lights will showcase chunky, Minecraft-esque shapes, including star-shaped and cracker-shaped lights, which first debuted in 2024. Unlike the more colorful versions from the past, these lights have a more modern feel.
With plans for these lights to last for at least the next four Christmas seasons, expect some exciting changes in the years ahead. Whether you’re walking through the shopping district or soaking in the winter magic, these Christmas decorations will be a key part of your holiday experience.
Covent Garden Christmas lights 2026
The Covent Garden Christmas lights will officially switch on on Wednesday, 12 November 2026. This year, the decorations will feature 40 gigantic golden bells with bows, 12 giant baubles, and eight spinning mirror balls, adding extra festive cheer to the iconic Market Hall building.
A stunning 55ft Christmas tree will be placed in the Piazza, illuminated by 30,000 LED lights, while an additional 260,000 LED lights will brighten the surrounding streets, creating true holiday cheer. These sparkling lights will fill the area with twinkling lights and a wonderful festive spirit, making it a must-see during the Christmas season.
The lights will be part of Covent Garden’s festive season in 2026, continuing the beloved tradition into its third season. As the Christmas tree glows brightly in the Piazza and the surrounding streets shine, the holiday magic will be hard to miss.
Whether you’re there to enjoy the holiday decorations or simply soak in the seasonal lights, Covent Garden will be the perfect place to experience the Christmas time glow of London This February.
Marylebone Village Christmas lights 2026
The Merry Marylebone event will kick off the Christmas lights in the area on Wednesday,12 November 2026. This annual festive event in Marylebone Village will light up the Marylebone High Street, which will be pedestrianized for the occasion, and spill over to Devonshire Street.
Fro3 pmmpm 8 pm, visitors can enjoy a Ferris wheel, Santa’s grotto, and various food stalls, drink stalls, and gift stalls. Local shops, restaurants, and bars will also offer discounts and special offers, adding to the festive atmosphere. The switch-on of the lights will take place at 6 pm, with a special guest to perform the honor.
This festive celebration brings the whole community together to enjoy the Christmas decorations and seasonal lights. As the event continues, the area will be filled with holiday cheer, Christmas spirit, and the magical winter lights that make the holiday season in London so special.
The Christmas glow will light up the streets, and the entire district will be full of the warm and inviting festive atmosphere that makes Marylebone a perfect spot for the Christmas time celebration.
Old Spitalfields Market Christmas lights 2026
The Old Spitalfields Market will kick off its Christmas lights on Wednesday, 12 November 2026, starting the festive season with a bang. From 3 p.m., visitors can enjoy a variety of events like Christmas shopping, live festive music from the market’s gospel choir, and fun activities like roaming elves and festive workshops.
The Christmas light switch-on will happen at 6 pmm, filling the air with holiday cheer and seasonal fun.
The market will be transformed into a magical place, with twinkling lights creating a beautiful festive atmosphere. As you walk through the market, you’ll experience the true Christmas spirit, with holiday decorations and Christmas glow adding to the winter magic.
It’s a perfect place to get into the holiday season and enjoy the Christmas celebrations in London.
Chelsea Christmas lights 2026
The Chelsea Christmas lights will be switched on Saturday, 15 November 2026. King’s Road will be pedestrianized from Sloane Square to Walpole Street for the special occasion. In past years, the event has featured a Christmas market, with pop-ups from local businesses, face painting, and entertainment on multiple stages.
There will also be roaming performers, adding to the festive atmosphere. As always, Father Christmas will have the honor of switching on the Christmas lights, filling the area with holiday cheer and Christmas spirit.
Expect plenty of seasonal lights to glow throughout the neighborhood, creating a magical Christmas glow. The lights display will bring the community together for a beautiful Christmas celebration, with plenty of twinkling lights and fun activities, all in time for the holiday season.
This year’s event promises to be filled with seasonal fun and festive lights, making it a great way to kick off the Christmas season in London.
Belgravia Christmas lights 2026
The Belgravia Christmas lights will be switched on during a special ceremony on Sunday, 16 November 2026. The area, including Motcomb Street, Elizabeth Street, Pimlico Road, Eccleston Yards, and Halkin Arcade, will be illuminated with beautiful Christmas lights that set the festive mood.
The celebration will feature live performances by the London Gay Men’s Chorus and the Fulham Brass Band, adding to the holiday cheer. There will also be a Christmas market in Eccleston Yards, along with various events and fun activities, making it a perfect spot for all to enjoy the Christmas spirit.
As the lights shine through the holiday season, the area will be filled with festive lights, Christmas decorations, and a magical winter atmosphere. This event will create the ideal Christmas celebration, with twinkling lights and seasonal fun bringing the holiday season to life.
Whether you’re shopping in the shopping district or enjoying the live music and festive display, Belgravia will be the place to soak in all the Christmas magic.
Cutty Sark and Greenwich Christmas lights 2026
The Cutty Sark will be illuminated in the shape of a Christmas tree again this year, with the lights switched on on 19 November 2026. The rigging of the famous ship will shine brightly, marking the start of the holiday season.
This Christmas light switch-on will coincide with the lantern parade and Christmas lights at the nearby Greenwich Market, making for a lively celebration. You can find more details on the Cutty Sark website as the day approaches.
The Christmas decorations in Greenwich will add a magical touch, with twinkling lights filling the area and bringing the Christmas spirit to life. Visitors can enjoy the festive lights, seasonal fun, and holiday activities throughout the day.
Whether you’re shopping at the market or enjoying the winter magic, this event will definitely put you in the Christmas glow and kick off the Christmas season in London.
Strand Christmas lights
The Strand will be lit up with new lights starting Tuesday, 12 November 2026. The old Northbank lights are being replaced as part of a rebrand, and instead of the usual angels, visitors will see fairies.
This new display is a festive nod to the first-ever fairy lights, which were worn by performers at the nearby Savoy Theatre back in 1882. The illuminated fairies will be part of the lighting scheme that runs along Villiers Street, stretching down to Embankment station.
These Christmas lights are a welcome addition to the festive season, bringing a magical touch to the area with twinkling lights and holiday decorations. The lights create a beautiful Christmas glow, adding to the Christmas spirit and seasonal lights that will shine through the holiday season.
Whether you’re walking through the area or enjoying the winter magic, the new lights are sure to bring some extra holiday cheer to Christmas time in London.
Christmas at Leadenhall Market
The Leadenhall Market will shine with its beautiful Christmas lights on Thursday,14 November 2026. The Lord Mayor of London will do the honours of switching on the lights at 5.30 pm, just five days after taking the reins at the Lord Mayor’s Show.
The decorations will include a grand central Christmas tree, colour-changing LED lights, and lovely fir tree garlands throughout the Market, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
As the Christmas lights come to life, the festive lights will add a special touch to the holiday season, filling the air with Christmas spirit and a warm Christmas glow.
The twinkling lights and seasonal lights will create a festive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the holiday season and all the seasonal fun at this iconic shopping area. The event will be a lovely Christmas celebration to kick off the Christmas season in London.
Neverland at Kenwood 2026
In north London, experience a magical light trail inspired by Peter Pan at Kenwood this Christmas. Follow Tinkerbell’s fairy dust path as it leads you from the Darlings’ family home to Neverland, a pirate-filled adventure. With dramatic lighting and sound design, you’ll be swept into the world of J M Barrie’s story.
Along the way, enjoy street food stalls and hot chocolate vendors to help warm up chilly hands. Plus, £1 from each ticket will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital, the charity to which Barrie gifted the Peter Pan rights. This holiday event will fill the air with Christmas spirit, festive lights, and plenty of seasonal fun.
The Churchill Arms
The Churchill Arms in Kensington is hard to miss during Christmas. This Irish-owned pub transforms with a special festive makeover, featuring over 80 Christmas trees and an impressive 22,000 individual lights. Its exterior is decorated with exploding foliage in colors like pinks, purples, yellows, and reds, creating a festive atmosphere.
The pub itself is a living tribute to Winston Churchill, complete with busts, Union Jack bunting, and quirky exterior decor. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a festive pint or delicious dishes from its top-tier Thai kitchen, which the owner claims was London’s first.
The lights and decorations add to the Christmas spirit, making it a must-visit spot during the holiday season.
London Eye Christmas light show
The London Eye Christmas light show will illuminate the skyline with festive colors as it counts down to Christmas. The waterfront leading up to this iconic London attraction will be adorned with garlands and twinkling lights, creating a magical Christmas glow.
You can also enjoy the Champagne Experience, offering breathtaking views at holiday season heights. This stunning display is the perfect way to enjoy the Christmas spirit, bringing a festive atmosphere to the holiday season and adding to the seasonal fun.
Best Christmas shop window displays in London.
In London, the festive window displays at iconic department stores are a must-see during the holiday season. Harrods is known for its twinkling lights and stunning picture-pretty window displays that add a touch of festive magic.
Don’t miss the famous themed window displays at Selfridges, or the gorgeous Christmas decorations on the half-timbered façade of Liberty London.
These beautifullights displays and Christmas decorations create a warm holiday spirit, filling the streets with seasonal fun, Christmas glow, and the perfect festive atmosphere for all your holiday shopping.
FAQ
Is London decorated for Christmas in October?
Yes, London begins its Christmas decorations by the end of October. The city is invested in the holiday season, with festive decorations and a seasonal atmosphere that quickly ramps up.
By mid-November, the city is in full swing, creating a magical Christmas spirit and winter magic throughout the streets, making it one of the most festive places in the world.
What time are the Christmas lights on in Oxford Street?
The Oxford Street Christmas lights are switched on daifromrom pm tototonight, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere. You’ll find performances, activities in shops, and other festive experiences throughout the area, all part of the holiday event.
The lights bring Christmas spirit, seasonal lights, and holiday cheer, adding to the Christmas celebrations and winter magic in London.
Are Christmas decorations up in London in November?
Yes, London starts putting up its Christmas decorations and lights switch-ons in November, with many major shopping areas, department stores, and event locations like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Harrods lighting up during the first half of November.
The festive displays kick off in early November and continue into December and beyond, creating a magical Christmas spirit and festive atmosphere that brings holiday cheer and seasonal fun to the city.
The Christmas lights and light displays fill the streets with a Christmas glow, marking the start of the holiday season and Christmas celebrations.
Where in London has the best Christmas lights?
Some of the best Christmas lights in London are found on Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Carnaby Street, where you’ll see large-scale illuminations and unique themes.
For something truly magical, visit Covent Garden for its magical lights or head to Bond Street for luxury designs. If you’re looking for unique experiences, the enchanted light trail at Christmas at Kew is a must, or you can enjoy the traditional decor at Leadenhall Market.
Areas like Chelsea also offer a wonderful festive atmosphere, making it the perfect time to enjoy the Christmas decorations, seasonal lights, and the true Christmas spirit.
