From Carnaby Street and Leadenhall Market to the iconic Regent Street spirits, London’s festive season is officially here
Christmas in London has become quite the occasion, with the capital’s most famous streets each putting on huge events to switch on their dazzling lights. These attract tens of thousands of tourists and locals looking to get in the festive spirit each year.
Carnaby Street is getting the ball going in 2026. Soho’s winding streets will become a flurry of colour in a matter of days – with help from a nostalgic soundtrack of 90s bangers.
Regent Street has opted for Bonfire Night, while Bond Street and Covent Garden have been chosen November 12 for their countdown. Questions are also swirling about how the Harry Potter-themed display on the newly-pedestrianised Oxford Street will look, with some details being kept under wraps for now.
Here’s what you need to know:
Carnaby Street
Date: November 4, 4.30pm – 7:30pm
Not only is Carnaby Street one of London’s most iconic areas, it also hosts a stellar Christmas light switch-on to boot. Bringing together Londoners and visitors alike, Soho will kick off the festive season with an evening inspired by the feel-good nostalgia of the 90s.
From 4.30pm, visitors can enjoy a soundtrack of 90s classics and much-loved Christmas hits as musical performances fill the surrounding streets. There will also be a ‘Press Play on Christmas’ photobooth in Kingly Court.
The first 1,000 people to register for an online ticket will receive exclusive on-the-night offers and a free cocktail or soft drink.
Regent Street
Date: November 5, 5pm – 9pm
The capital’s original Christmas display is the one everyone still makes the journey into Central London to see. From window displays to giveaways, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
The main attraction is, of course, the Spirits of Christmas, which are inspired by the very first festive lights erected on the street in 1954. This year, Regent Street is temporarily becoming pedestrianised, meaning you can admire the lights spirits with plenty of room to roam and snap those all important photos. Organisers have teased a twist for 2026 so keep your eyes peeled.
Shops across Regent Street and St James’ are also offering in-store experiences, treats and offers during the event. These include live music in Tommy Hilfiger, a choir in Boss, and a free portrait with every purchase in Molton Brown.
Oxford Street
Date: November 9, from 4.30pm
Oxford Street will experience a “spellbinding” Harry Potter takeover this Christmas to celebrate the release of the new HBO series. From November 4, the newly pedestrianised stretch will be transformed with themed designs and activities that will also coincide with the huge flagship shop opening its doors.
For the light switch-on itself, organisers have teased a ‘magical’ night of entertainment, surprises and a celebrity guest or two. Full details are being announced this Thursday.
Dee Corsi, CEO of the New West End Company, said: “This will be a historic moment for Oxford Street. The arrival of Harry Potter to the street will create an unforgettable experience and showcase the West End at its very best. It is an exciting milestone and a magical moment for shoppers, visitors and fans alike.”
Bond Street
Date: November 12, 4pm – 8pm
Crown Jewel-themed Christmas lights will once again light up one of London’s busiest shopping streets. This is the last chance to see the display as a new design is set to be revealed for 2027.
A brass band will lead a special countdown, with the lights illuminating the street at 7pm. Beforehand, crowds will have the unique opportunity to explore more of Bond Street as it’s becoming traffic-free for one night only.
Covent Garden
Date: November 12, typically switched on at 6pm
Over 300,000 sparkling lights will be switched on in Covent Garden at its annual Christmas celebration. The much-loved golden bells, mirror balls and baubles are also returning to the Market Building, as is the 50ft Norwegian Spruce on the West Piazza.
Winter-inspired drinks will be served from the pop-up Box Office Bar and surrounding restaurants are offering special deals.
The Theatre of Christmas campaign is back too, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain and enter a world of West End magic. This year, there’s going to be new installation called the The Forest of Theatre, which is made up of Christmas trees inspired by shows like Mamma Mia, Six and My Neighbour Totoro. Plus, there’ll be surprise performances from choirs and West End casts every Thursday.
Leadenhall Market
Date: November 19, from 5.15pm
Although it is one of London’s last landmarks to switch on its Christmas lights, the display at Leadenhall Market is by no means the least. The Victorian walkways will be adorned in garlands and decorations, with a spectacular 26ft Christmas tree taking centre stage beneath the atrium.
Visitors will also be able to step through a light tunnel complete with vintage-style lights in Beehive Passage, while live music and a flurry of snow will add to the atmosphere as the Market prepares to light up at 6pm.
Further details of Leadenhall Market’s Christmas programme will be announced soon.
There are plenty of other Christmas light displays planned for boroughs and tourist attractions across London. Here are the switch-on dates that have been announced so far:
- St Martin’s Lane – November 3
- Knightsbridge – November 10
- Old Spitalfields Market- November 13
- Marylebone Village- November 11
- Chelsea – November 12
- The Churchill Arms – November 12
- Kew Gardens- November 13
- Fleet Street – November 18
- St Katharine Docks – November 19
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