Spoonfed gets in the festive mood with a 'when and where' guide to London's Christmas lights.
So the nights are getting darker and the weather is only going to get worse, but remember there is light at the end of the winter tunnel - all hail Christmas! So you missed the turning on of the Oxford Street Christmas lights? Fear not, there are plenty more events across London to shine a light on these dark days. Here are some other Christmas lights events to cheer you up.
Monday 7th November
Westfield London Christmas Lights
Shepherd's Bush (5:00pm) Stratford (7:45pm)
London's new retail giant have enlisted the services of teen uber-hearthrob Justin Bieber to kick off their festivities this Christmas. With Stratford City a newcomer on the scene, they've pulled out all the stops with a firework display following the ceremony. Die-hard Bieber fans can even catch the central line and have time to get to both!
Tuesday 8th November
Regent Street Christmas Lights (5:00pm)
Often overshadowed by the mighty Oxford Street ceremony, the Regent Street nets are back for another outing this year. As is routine, the lights are sponsored by the latest festive film - this year it's Arthur Christmas starring Bill Nighy and Ashley Jensen, who will be flicking the switch. There's also performances from Kelly Clarkson, Matt Cardle and more.
Thursday 10th November
Carnaby Christmas Decorations (6:30pm)
One of London's leading places to shop celebrates Christmas with its usual abundance of style. The theme for this year is that of the message of love and happiness, heavily influenced with a swinging 60s vibe. The Christmas decorations will reach over six feet high. Expect to be treated to dazzling lights in Kingly Court and a collection of mistletoe chandeliers.
There's no official switching-on ceremony, but the lights will go on from 6:30 on 10th November. Time to rediscover some flower power happiness!
Covent Garden Christmas Lights (6:30pm)
If you're looking for something less traditional and a little more technologically advanced than your average Christmas lights, then Covent Garden is the place for you. Courtesy of UVA, Covent Garden will be transformed with an interactive light installation. This fantastic display comes alongside a real food market selling gingerbread, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. There will also be live music and performances throughout the festive period to suit all ages! Not to be missed!
Wednesday 16th November
Marylebone Christmas Lights (3:30 - 6:30pm)
If you crave the more traditional delights that Christmas can bring, then the Marylebone Christmas lights will be right up your street. This year the urban village will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a stage show featuring carol singing from the local schools. There will also be a number of carol singers as well as a Santa's grotto for children. A number of stalls will also be selling Christmas gifts and foods on Marylebone High Street.
Friday 18th November
Bond Street Christmas Lights (6:00pm)
The Bond Street event is heavily family orientated with an up-beat, child-friendly atmosphere. Expect live music, street performers, carol singers as well as reindeer and a chance to see the real Santa. If shopping is your thing then what better way to arrive than in one of the many rickshaw sleighs on offer!
Winter Wonderland Hyde Park (10:00am)
What London Christmas round-up would be complete without inclusion of that Yuletide paradise that is Winter Wonderland? As Christmassy as Home Alone and Mince Pies, the fairground-come-market has become an institution for festive Londoners, with an ice rink and giant observation wheel making things extra magical. Entry is free but charges apply to some attractions.
Click here for all Christmas Events in London.
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