Illuminated angels soar over streets of London with message of ‘welcome’ to the capital as new Christmas lights go up a day after Bonfire Night

The streets of London have been transformed into a winter wonderland as the city’s much-loved Christmas lights sparkle across the West End.

Now celebrating their 10th anniversary, ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ lights have once again brought festive magic to Regent Street, St James’s, and surrounding streets, delighting crowds who gathered to watch the capital shine. 

The seasonal spectacle runs until January 4, inviting Londoners and visitors alike to soak up the sparkle and joy of the season. 

This year’s displays draw inspiration from the first angel-themed installations of 1954.

However, not everyone is a fan and many on social media had a mixed reaction to the lights with some pointing it out it is still over a month until Christmas.

One said: ‘All the Christmas lights now going up, bit too soon for my liking, but that’s OK, and it all looks lovely.’

But others branded the display ‘Ridiculous’ adding: ‘Am I going crazy, or are these the worst [lights] yet?’

‘The Spirit of Christmas’ lights have once again brought festive magic to Regent Street

The seasonal spectacle runs until January 4, inviting Londoners and visitors alike to soak up the sparkle and joy of the season

Over 30 illuminated ‘Spirits’, crafted from more than 300,000 energy-efficient LED lights, now float above Regent Street and St James’s

Additional twinkles can also be seen on side streets including Jermyn Street, Glasshouse Street, Swallow Street, and the stunning Princes and Quadrant Arcades.

Those wishing to see the Regent Street and St James’s lights for themselves can enjoy them until Sunday 4th January

Over 30 illuminated ‘Spirits’, crafted from more than 300,000 energy-efficient LED lights, now float above Regent Street and St James’s.

Additional twinkles can also be seen on side streets including Jermyn Street, Glasshouse Street, Swallow Street, and the stunning Princes and Quadrant Arcades. 

At St James’s Market, an illuminated Wishing Tree offers visitors the chance to donate to The Felix Project, triggering the lights to twinkle while helping redistribute surplus food to London communities in need. 

The launch celebrations featured festive performances from local choirs, while Hamleys’ famous elves added an extra sprinkle of magic as the lights were switched on. 

Those wishing to see the Regent Street and St James’s lights for themselves can enjoy them until Sunday 4th January, where they’ll run daily from 3pm until midnight. 

While in the area, those visiting can also discover for themselves the iconic mix of shopping, dining and wellbeing experiences on offer – from shopping for gifts at flagship stores and the best in British brands, to festive entertaining and dining at some of the capital’s must-visit restaurants and bars. 

Plus, for those looking for entertaining ways to spend their days, there’s a variety of theatre, culture and arts venues to visit.