London’s West End will once again transform for the festive season, beginning with the switch-on of the Leicester Square lights on 1 November, followed by the return of St Martin’s Lane lights, delivered by Art of London, marking the start of the festive season.
Marking the transition into the most wonderful time of the year, the illuminations set the scene for weeks of festive discovery across the capital’s cultural heart. From an atmospheric evening beneath the lights to a trip to the theatre, winter shopping or a day on the ice, the West End offers countless ways to celebrate the season.
Running until 6 January, the illuminations each reflect the distinctive character of their surroundings. Leicester Square’s star-shaped illuminations, delivered by Discover Leicester Square, celebrate its heritage as London’s home of film and entertainment, while St Martin’s Lane will twinkle in tribute to Theatreland, with a special switch-on performance from the cast of smash-hit musical Into the Woods, alongside a festive choir and seasonal bites, for an evening of West End Christmas magic.
Whether for a date night or a family day out, visitors can also discover Skate Leicester Square, an outdoor ice rink in the heart of the city alongside a festive market serving warming food image004.jpgand seasonal drinks, with gifts and winter experiences to explore. Local businesses will also offer exclusive discounts on skating sessions.
The lights will also herald a packed programme of theatre, with audiences able to choose from an extensive programme of musicals, plays and family favourites including Olivier award-winning Into The Woods at the Noël Coward Theatre, the Nutcracker at London Coliseum, and Oliver!, starring Matt Lucas during a six-week limited run at the Gielgud Theatre.
Shoppers, culture lovers and festive gift-hunters will be spoilt for choice throughout the West End. For those searching for thoughtful gifts or a special seasonal treat, the West End offers everything from distinctive finds to memorable experiences. Highlights include festive gifting and memberships from the National Portrait Gallery, alongside offerings from Fortnum & Mason, Globe-Trotter, Aspinal of London and Church’s.
Highlights also include the National Portrait Gallery’s membership programme and festive gifting collection, Blacklock gift cards, and Haymarket Hotel’s ‘A Very London Christmas’ package. This three-night festive escape features live jazz, Christmas dining, guided walks past London’s iconic landmarks and family-friendly seasonal activities.
Kirsty Tullett-Jones, Director of Marketing & Communications at Art of London, said: “Few places in the world do the festive season quite like London’s West End. With its iconic streets illuminated by millions of sparkling lights, world-famous theatre shows, incredible restaurants and some of the best hotels and shops in the world, it’s a place that truly comes alive at this time of year. Whether you’re planning a much-loved festive tradition or discovering something new, a visit to the West End should be right at the top of everyone’s festive to-do list.”
