When Do the Christmas Lights Go On in London?

As the evenings draw in and the air turns crisp, London transforms into something magical. Twinkling lights drape along streets, shop windows glow, and a festive buzz fills the city. For many Londoners and visitors, the moment the Christmas lights go on is the unofficial start of the holiday season, a time for cosy nights, mulled wine and that unmistakable festive charm.

In this post, we explore the history and significance of London’s Christmas lights, reveal the 2025 switch-on dates for major displays, highlight the best places to visit, share practical tips for attending (and parking), and even show how you can bring a little of that London sparkle into your home.

History and Significance of London Christmas Lights

London’s tradition of public Christmas lights dates back decades. The first large-scale street displays emerged in the 1950s, as retailers and city planners recognised the power of festive illumination to spread seasonal cheer and draw in shoppers. Over time, these light displays have grown more elaborate and creative - evolving from simple strings of bulbs to dazzling LED angels, star-filled canopies and immersive installations that turn city streets into festive wonderlands.

Beyond commercial appeal, the lights have become a cultural tradition, a symbol of winter warmth and community spirit. They mark the shift into the winter season and Christmas festivities, inviting people out into the city for family strolls, shopping, festive meals - or just to soak up the atmosphere under twinkling lights.

With growing awareness of sustainability and modern lighting technology, many displays now use energy-efficient LEDs, meaning the magic of Christmas lights can shine bright while reducing environmental impact.

2025 Switch-On Dates and Locations

Here are the confirmed switch-on dates for some of the biggest and most iconic Christmas light displays in London in 2025:

• Oxford Street - lights go on Monday, 3 November 2025. This marks the start of the festive season for many Londoners.
• Regent Street & surrounding area (St James’s, Piccadilly etc.) - the famed “Spirits of Christmas” angels return on Thursday, 6 November 2025.
• Carnaby Street (Soho) - part of the 6 November 2025 switch-ons, with the theme “All is Bright”. Expect bold, artistic installations in true Carnaby style.
• Covent Garden - lights switch on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, including a giant Christmas tree, ornate decorations, and seasonal performances.
• Leadenhall Market (City of London) - lights are scheduled to be switched on Thursday, 13 November 2025, with the market’s historic arcade glowing under delicate festive lights.

In addition to these central locations, many London neighbourhoods (from Marylebone to Belgravia) host their own smaller-scale switch-on events, often with markets, music and community spirit.

Notable Displays and Events

Oxford Street

As the first street to switch on its lights in 2025, Oxford Street leads the festive charge. Over 300,000 LED bulbs (including thousands of illuminated stars) will line Europe’s busiest shopping street, creating a sky of light above the hustle and bustle of shoppers, red buses and London’s famous winter crowds.

Regent Street - “Spirits of Christmas” Angels

Nothing says “London Christmas” quite like Regent Street’s elegant angels hovering overhead. The angels’ shimmering wings stretch from Oxford Circus down to Piccadilly - a breathtaking sight, especially when captured from the centre of the street beneath the glow. 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of this much-loved display.

Carnaby Street - Artistic & Alternative Lights

True to its Soho roots, Carnaby Street offers a creative twist on festive lighting. For 2025, the “All is Bright” installation promises colourful, artsy lighting, a perfect match for the area’s boutiques, independent shops and trendy vibe.

Covent Garden - Tree, Lights & Festive Atmosphere

Covent Garden becomes a festive heart of London from 12 November, with thousands of lights, a towering Christmas tree, street performances and a cosy market-like buzz. It’s ideal for families, couples or anyone who loves a blend of theatre, sparkle and festive cheer.

Historic & Hidden Gems - Leadenhall Market and More

For a quieter, more atmospheric light walk, historic covered arcades like Leadenhall Market offer charming charm and rich architectural detail. Their switch-ons and decorations give a glimpse of London’s festive elegance beyond the tourist crowds.

Best Places to Visit

If you’re planning a Christmas lights tour around London, here are some blend-of-best recommendations:

• For sheer spectacle and festive spirit: Oxford Street and Regent Street - ideal for visitors craving the big, iconic London Christmas look.
• For festive creativity and a trendy vibe: Carnaby Street, full of character and artistic lighting.
• For a magical mix of lights, markets, music and atmosphere: Covent Garden.
• For something more historic and intimate: Leadenhall Market, and smaller neighbourhoods like Belgravia or Marylebone Village.

Tips for Attending (Timing, Transport & Parking)

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of London’s Christmas light displays:

• Best time: Aim for early evening (around 4-6 pm) when lights start coming on but the crowds haven’t yet peaked. This is especially true right after switch-on.
• Transport over parking: London’s congestion and limited parking make public transport the most convenient option. Use the Tube, rail or bus (for example Oxford Circus, Piccadilly or Charing Cross stations) to access the major light zones.
• Dress warm & bring good shoes: Expect winter chill and busy pavements. Waterproof boots and layers are sensible.
• Avoid peak weekends: Friday and Saturday evenings tend to be the busiest. Weeknights or Sunday evenings offer a more relaxed vibe.
• Book early for markets or popular venues: if combining lights with dinner or theatre - things get busy fast.

How to Recreate the Look at Home

Love the festive vibe? You don’t need to visit London to enjoy a little sparkle. With our range of decorative lighting, you can bring the magic home and recreate that Christmas mood in your own space. Think strings of warm fairy lights, canopy lights, window frames, vintage-style bulbs, and LED stars or angels to echo London’s West End. Whether you’re going for warm and homely or bold and festive, it’s never been easier to capture the London glow at home.

Photo Opportunities

London at Christmas is a dream for photographers and social media lovers. Great spots include:

• Standing beneath the angels on Regent Street - the perfect symmetrical shot with lights shimmering above.
• Capturing red London buses under the starry canopy on Oxford Street.
• Golden hour at Covent Garden’s tree, followed by night-time lights and glowing decorations.
• The atmospheric, Dickensian charm of Leadenhall Market - lanterns, cobbled floor, and glowing arches.
• Intimate neighbourhood streets in Belgravia or Marylebone, ideal for quieter, cosy photos.

Tip: arrive around 4-5 pm for soft light that transitions into festive glow - ideal for both daytime and night-time shots.

Fun Facts & Trivia

• 1950s roots: The first large-scale Christmas street lights in London date from the 1950s, as retailers sought to create a festive shopping atmosphere in the run-up to Christmas.
• LED evolution: Many of today’s displays use energy-efficient LEDs (such as the 300,000 LEDs lining Oxford Street) cutting energy use while brightening up the night sky.
• Regent Street angels are iconic: The suspended “Spirits of Christmas” angels have become one of London’s most photographed seasonal sights, and 2025 marks their 10th anniversary.
• Historic market magic: Places like Leadenhall Market combine centuries-old architecture with festive lights - offering a different kind of Christmas spectacle, away from the crowds.

London’s Christmas lights are more than decoration - they’re a tradition, a celebration, and a reminder of community, creativity and festive joy. From the first flicker on Oxford Street to the cosy glow of historic arcades, each light tells a story and invites you to join in the seasonal magic.

Whether you’re planning a festive walk, a photo tour, or simply want to bring that sparkle home, now is the perfect time to start dreaming and planning. Keep an eye on your calendar, wrap up warm, and get ready to fall in love with London all over again.