The Festive Season is Coming: London’s West End prepares with Dazzling Lights, Ice Skating and Theatre Magic launching this November

From the festive lights of Leicester Square to a special performance by the cast of Into the Woods, London’s West End is preparing to welcome the Christmas season with entertainment, shopping and winter experiences for all ages.

Two of the capital’s best-known destinations prepare to switch on their festive illuminations. With seasonal lights, outdoor ice skating, Christmas markets and a theatre performance on the programme, the area promises plenty of reasons to head into central London this winter.

The celebrations begin with the Leicester Square festive lights switch-on on 1 November 2026, followed by the St Martin’s Lane lights on 3 November, where visitors can look forward to a special performance from the cast of hit musical Into the Woods.

The illuminations will remain in place until 6 January 2027, giving Londoners and visitors several weeks to soak up the festive atmosphere, enjoy a winter day out or combine Christmas shopping with an evening of entertainment.

Leicester Square

A familiar meeting point for Londoners, film fans and visitors from around the world, Leicester Square will welcome the Christmas season with its own festive illuminations from 1 November.

Known for its film premieres and connections to the entertainment industry, the square offers a fitting backdrop for a Christmas celebration in the heart of the capital. Visitors can take in the lights, explore the surrounding streets and make a day of the occasion with nearby shops, restaurants and West End attractions.

The Leicester Square festive lights will run from 1 November 2026 to 6 January 2027, making the square a convenient stop for anyone planning a Christmas shopping trip or a festive evening out.

St Martin’s Lane

The celebrations continue on 3 November, when St Martin’s Lane switches on its festive lights with a special appearance by the cast of Into the Woods.

With its strong links to London’s theatre scene, St Martin’s Lane provides a fitting setting for an event that brings together Christmas celebrations and live performance. The musical appearance adds an extra touch of West End magic to the occasion, making the switch-on particularly appealing to theatre lovers.

The switch-on is open to members of the public to attend for free, join the celebration and reserve your spot below.

The St Martin’s Lane festive illuminations will remain on display until 6 January 2027.