Today, Fulham Pier has unveiled the headline event launching its Christmas celebrations: London’s first-ever Great Reindeer River Race. From 5pm on 12 November, Fulham Pier will host an evening of entertainment before six illuminated rowing boats decorated as reindeer take to the Thames for a 6.30pm showdown*, with Heart Radio presenter Mark Wright providing live commentary as the action unfolds. Racing past Fulham Pier and back again, the crews will then join TV personality Amanda Holden for a riverside Christmas lights switch-on.
Bringing a Christmas twist to London’s rich rowing heritage, young crews from Fulham Reach Boat Club will trade their traditional racing kit for festive attire they battle it out on the same stretch of river that hosts the world-famous Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race each year. An award-winning Sport for Good charity, the club uses rowing to create opportunities and support the local community through inclusive programmes.
Afterwards, Amanda Holden will lead a spectacular riverside Christmas countdown, officially ushering in the season before Mark Wright returns to the stage to round off the evening with an exclusive DJ set.
Amanda Holden said: “I’m completely Christmas-obsessed, so when I heard about a reindeer race on the Thames, I knew this was no ordinary celebration – London is in for a treat. I’m thrilled to be switching on the Christmas lights at Fulham Pier and helping launch what promises to be a magical festive season on the riverside.”
Hundreds are expected to line the boardwalk to cheer on their chosen team and witness a brand-new tradition. Visitors will be invited to champion a reindeer crew by selecting a flag to wave in support, with all those who back the winning team set to receive a voucher to redeem on a future visit to Fulham Pier’s Riverside Market – London’s only food hall overlooking the river, where seasonal treats like Whispering Angel mulled rosé, will be available to enjoy throughout the Christmas season. Alongside the race and switch-on, visitors can enjoy gospel performances, an early glimpse of Fulham Pier’s upcoming Christmas musical, meet-and-greet opportunities with Fulham FC players, and mascots Billy and Bella, pop-ups, and competitions, including the chance to win a summer cruise for a family of four with Royal Caribbean. Those looking to extend their evening can also book tickets for a Comedy Box special headlined by Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo favourite Milton Jones, taking place later in the evening at 8pm.
Glen Sutton, Director of Fulham Pier, said: “When you sit on one of the most famous rowing stretches in the country, it’s hard to resist putting a festive spin on it. The Great Reindeer River Race is our way of bringing a bit of fun to the riverfront, working with our incredible local community and starting Christmas at Fulham Pier with a switch-on unlike anything else in London.”
Following the lights switch-on, Fulham Pier will transform into a woodland-inspired escape, complete with twinkling trees, seasonal food and drink, live entertainment and experiences for all ages. The festivities start from 5pm on 12 November and are free to attend, with Fulham Pier’s switch-on following the race. Further details, timings and booking information can be found at The Fulham Pier Lights Switch On .
For those unable to make the switch-on, there’s plenty more festive fun to come, with a special opening weekend 13 – 15 November including roaming light-up performers, live jazz, a vinyl market and appearances from some of Santa’s real-life reindeer. Over the following seven weeks, families can also look forward to Santa storytelling sessions, the Share the Light of Christmas musical and the return of the sold-out Snow Ball NYE Family Rave, while throughout the season guests can also enjoy Santa’s Roller Disco, live jazz, premium wreath-making, comedy, candlelit opera and curated wine tastings. Merry Makers will feature hands-on workshops including a bracelet-making & gift bar, a stocking studio and a decoration-making lab.
Christmas isn’t just for humans at Fulham Pier. After a stroll along the Thames Path, dog owners and their four-legged companions can enjoy the destination’s first-ever Santa Paws Day, featuring treats, a dog-themed Christmas market and bespoke pet portraits captured by a live dog illustrator.
From festive dining at neighbourhood restaurant Constance to Christmas cocktails with river views at Flo Bar, Fulham Pier offers plenty of reasons to gather this Christmas. Meanwhile, private members’ club Lighthouse Social, occupying the upper floors of Fulham Pier, will offer members a curated seasonal programme of supper clubs, masterclasses and a bespoke gifting concierge service. For a longer retreat, Fulham Pier Hotel, complete with access to Sæl Spa, offers a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of central London.
