Oxford Street Christmas Lights Switch-on 3 November

Oxford Street Christmas Lights have been illuminating Central London since 1959 and 2009 is expected to be Oxford Street’s biggest and most elaborate Christmas light show in its 50-year history.

On 3 November the famous Oxford Street lights switch on and London’s ultimate Christmas spectacle is set to dazzle the British public and visitors for years to come.

The Central London spectacle has become an integral part of the country’s preparations for the Christmas period since the first illumination of Oxford Street’s world famous Christmas Lights in 1959 . The West End is internationally famous for its 600 shops, 176 flagship stores and 120 international brands and each year  50,000 shoppers visit the area, in spite of the chilly November evenings, to witness the glittering Christmas light show which puts a fairyland touch to London’s famous shopping district.

The Oxford Street Christmas lighting is also a celebrity event and each year since the early 1980s the red button is pushed by one of the nation’s number one celebrities . This year, with celebrity appearances such as Jim Carrey and major performing artists provided by Heart Radio 106.2,  Oxford Street will be packed with entertainment from 5:00 pm to 6.30 pm.

After the Christmas lights switch-on, the focus will shift to Leicester Square for the world premiere of Disney’s “A Christmas Carol“. This will be one of the most glittering and star-studded premieres that London has ever seen.

If you’re in London, head to Oxford Street on 3 November and be part of one of London’s famous Christmas events, enjoy the Christmas light show and do some Christmas shopping.