Into the Woods stars bring magic to the West End at St Martin's Lane lights switch-on

London’s festive season is officially underway, as stars of musical Into the Woods brought a touch of theatrical magic to St Martin’s Lane yesterday evening with the switch-on of festive lights by Art of London.

St Martin’s Lane has welcomed the start of the Christmas season, with stars of Olivier Award-winning musical Into the Woods taking to the streets for a special live performance before switching on the area’s Theatreland-inspired festive lights.

The celebration, which took place on 3 November, saw John Dagleish, Laura Pitt-Pulford, Keith Ramsay, Matthew Seadon-Young and Lucas Koch perform a medley of songs from the musical, including It Takes Two, Giants in the Sky and Children Will Listen.

The cast transformed the West End street into an open-air stage before leading the official countdown to illuminate the lights, marking the return of the area's theatre-inspired displays, which will light up St Martin’s Lane every evening until 6 January 2027.

The celebrations continued with a festive choir and seasonal food and drink from local favourites including Mr Fogg’s, Chipotle, PizzaExpress, St Martins Lane London hotel, The Real Greek and Côte Brasserie.

The St Martin’s Lane switch-on is just the beginning of a packed festive programme across London's West End, with plenty of opportunities to combine Christmas shopping, theatre, dining and seasonal experiences in one visit.

Nearby Leicester Square has also welcomed its festive illuminations, with star-shaped lights celebrating its reputation as London’s home of film and entertainment. The display provides the perfect backdrop to Skate Leicester Square, where visitors can enjoy an open-air ice rink and festive market built around the iconic Shakespeare Fountain.

For theatre lovers, there is an exciting programme of shows to enjoy this winter. Into the Woods continues at the Noël Coward Theatre on St Martin’s Lane until 9 January 2027, while the festive favourite The Nutcracker returns to the London Coliseum. Musical fans can also catch Oliver!, starring Matt Lucas during a six-week limited run at the Gielgud Theatre.

Those looking to get ahead with their Christmas shopping will find plenty of inspiration across the West End. From iconic British names including Fortnum & Mason, Aspinal of London, Globe-Trotter and Church’s to a cultural visit to the National Portrait Gallery, there are gifts and experiences to suit a range of tastes.

For something a little different, experience-led gifts are also on offer, including Blacklock gift cards and Haymarket Hotel’s A Very London Christmas package.

Plan a festive visit to the West End

Whether you're planning a festive theatre trip, a Christmas shopping day, a romantic evening out or a family adventure, London's West End offers plenty of ways to get into the seasonal spirit.

Make time to explore St Martin’s Lane after dark to enjoy its illuminated Theatreland display, catch a show, discover the area's restaurants and bars, or head towards Leicester Square for a spot of festive skating.

Art of London's St Martin’s Lane festive lights will remain illuminated until 6 January 2027, whilst Into the Woods runs at the Noël Coward Theatre until 9 January 2027.

For more festive inspiration, cultural experiences and ideas for exploring London's West End explore our website below.