Covent Garden has transformed into a winter wonderland for the 2024 Christmas season. The festivities will kicked off with the Christmas Lights Switch-On on November 12, illuminating a 55ft Christmas tree adorned with 30,000 LED lights, as well as a new lighting scheme in Seven Dials, adding 150,000 lights to the overall display of 260,000 LEDs. The area will also features gigantic bells, baubles, and other decorations, including the return of the iconic Market Building display with 40 gigantic bells, 12 giant baubles, and 8 spinning mirror balls.
Not to forget their seven-week festive calendar packed with exciting events and activities. Expect pop-ups, family-friendly experiences, surprise performances, and live entertainment, including ‘Festive Thursdays’ with late-night shopping and live music. Santa’s Sleigh will be back for photo opportunities, and a Christmas Candlelight concert will add to the magical atmosphere.
Daily artificial snow flurries will occur from December 6 to 31, enhancing the festive ambiance. With mulled wine festivals, alpine-themed pop-ups, and special shopping events, Covent Garden promises a memorable and enchanting holiday experience for all visitors. Whether you’re looking for traditional Christmas charm or unique festive activities, Covent Garden has something for everyone.
1. Marvel at the Christmas lights and installation
For Christmas 2024, Covent Garden unveiled a spectacular festive display, starting with the Christmas Lights Switch-On on November 12. The event illuminated a 55ft Christmas tree adorned with 30,000 LED lights, as well as a new lighting scheme in Seven Dials, adding 150,000 lights to the overall display of 260,000 LEDs.
Address: Covent Garden Market Building, London WC2E 8RF
2. Visit the Christmas Markets
There’s nothing more Christmassy than Covent Garden come Winter-time. And we’re not just talking their famous decorations, towering Christmas tree but also their festive markets, mulled wine stalls, pop-up food stalls and much more. There are even daily flurries of snow!
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 9DD
3. Take Photos with Santa’s Sleigh
Santa’s Sleigh is a beautifully restored and hand-painted antique sleigh, originally built in 1884. It is located in the South Hall of the market building, opposite St Paul’s church. This is a great activity to do with kids who can enjoy a festive photo opportunity by sitting in the sleigh, which is adorned with buttons, bells, and lights for imaginative play. The sleigh is open for photos from 9am to 9pm daily, and it can get quite busy, so be prepared to queue!
Address: Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2E 9DD
4. Get cozy at the Covent Garden Chalet
The Covent Garden Chalet is a festive pop-up that offers an alpine escape with mulled wine, seasonal treats, and more. Visitors can enjoy a cozy atmosphere while indulging in festive tipples including hot chocolate and signature hot cocktails, along with small bites like churros and mince pies. This charming chalet-style venue is perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit, making it a must-visit during the holiday season in Covent Garden.
Address: East Piazza, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8RF
5. Stroll through Wonder Wood
The Wonder Wood is back featuring a variety of festive trees decorated by Covent Garden’s horticultural team. This enchanting installation creates a winter wonderland atmosphere, allowing visitors to stroll through and enjoy the magical scenery. The display is free to visit.
Address: James Street, Covent Garden
6. Attend a Christmas Show
Enjoy festive productions at nearby theatres. Options include “A Christmas Carol” at The Old Vic and “The Nutcracker” at the London Coliseum.
Address: Various locations in the West End
7. Shop at the Save the Children Pop-Up
The Save the Children Christmas Shop is a festive pop-up running until December 30th. This unique shop features a selection of beautiful homewares and gifts adorned with artwork designed by children who have benefited from Save the Children’s global programs.
Visitors can shop for meaningful Christmas cards, decorations, and pre-loved Christmas jumpers provided by Beyond Retro, with all proceeds supporting the charity’s initiatives.
The shop is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, extending to 8 PM on weekends, making it a perfect destination for holiday shopping that gives back.
Address: 28 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London
8. Take a pitstop and have a festive cocktail at Miracle at Henrietta
Take a trip to a Christmas wonderland with the return of Miracle at Henrietta in Covent Garden. Located on Henrietta Street, this festive cocktail bar provides the perfect pitstop for a cocktail and a chance to escape the Christmas craziness that consumes the capital.
Hidden away on the mezzanine, guests are transported back in time to Christmas past, with nostalgic festive décor reminiscent of a chalet living room on Christmas Eve. Stockings will be hung, fairy lights strung, and the Christmas tree takes centre stage. Miracle at Henrietta is known for its over-the-top festive decor and a menu of seasonal cocktails, making it a must-visit during the holiday season for those looking for a boozy past time.
Address: 14-15 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 8QH.