From 12 November, more than 96,000 twinkling LED lights will turn the Strand and Villiers Street into one of the capital’s most magical festive walkways. Rows of illuminated fairies will soar above both sides of the street, trailing ribbons of glowing light behind them.
The display is a nod to the street’s dazzling history. The Savoy Theatre on the Strand was the first public building in the world to be lit entirely by electricity, and it’s where Joseph Swan created the world’s first fairy lights in 1882. Over 140 years later, the fairies are back.
The lights sparkle along one of London’s most iconic stretches, from Trafalgar Square towards the Royal Courts of Justice. Along the way are world-famous names like the Savoy and Somerset House, along with West End theatres, buzzing restaurants, grand hotels and festive shopping.
The fairies also have a green streak, with long-life, low-energy LEDs, frames made from recycled aluminium, and components made from secondary raw materials.
The lights are part of London Heritage Quarter’s free Christmas programme, which is raising money for charity across some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks.
WHEN:
Lights on: Thursday 12 November 2026
Display runs: 12 November 2026 to 5 January 2027
WHERE:
The Strand and Villiers Street, central London. Nearest stations: Charing Cross, Embankment, Temple, Covent Garden.
