It’s October 1st, and you know what that means: Halloween is less than a month away! But it also means that it’s time to start getting ready for Christmas in London. And ahead of the festive season arriving, one of the city’s most charming Christmas displays has announced details of its return. The Carnaby Street Christmas lights will switch on on November 4, with a brand new display for 2026.
Every year, Carnaby Street completely overhauls its Christmas lights display. Past sights have included a charitable collaboration in the form of ‘Choose Love’-themed lights, as well as planetary creations, colourful geometric shapes, and more. And this winter, visitors can expect an all-new installation “inspired by the feel-good nostalgia of the 90s”.
Carnaby Street Christmas lights
For 2026, Carnaby Street is inviting Londoners to ‘Press Play on Christmas’. They want visitors to cast themselves back to “a time when shopping was a day out, discoveries happened in person and festive memories were made together”.
They’re taking the spirit of the 90s and bringing it into the 2020s, with some throwback-inspired Christmas lights. Expect to see a bright display that draws from “the colour, confidence and playful energy of a British 90s Christmas, with vibrant neon-style colours flowing through the lights.”
Catherine Riccomini, Director of Marketing and Communications at Shaftesbury Capital, said:
“Carnaby Street has always done Christmas differently, and this year we’re taking the colour, creativity and optimism of the 90s and reimagining it for today. Press Play on Christmas is about much more than the lights, it’s about giving people reasons to come together, discover something unexpected and experience the neighbourhood in real life. From shopping and dining to entertainment and experiences across Carnaby Street and Soho, we want Christmas here to feel spontaneous, social and full of discovery.”
When will the Christmas lights turn on?
The Carnaby Street Christmas lights will turn on on November 4, 2026.
To mark the ocassion, there will be a switch-on event on the day.
Subsequently, the area will host festive events and celebrations throughout the festive season.
Visitors can register for a free Switch-On Pass, giving them access to offers and experiences on the night and throughout the winter. Registration opens for the Switch-On Pass soon; keep an eye on the Carnaby Street website for more info.
