The festive season in the City of London is set to be illuminated once more as the popular Aldgate in Winter Festival prepares for its ninth annual edition. Organised by the Aldgate Connect Business Improvement District (BID), the community celebration will take over Aldgate Square on Thursday 4th and Friday 5th December 2025, promising a bigger programme than ever before.
Festive Schedule and Highlights
This year's event expands to a full two-day format, offering an extra day of seasonal cheer. The festivities commence on Thursday 4th December from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm with complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate, and pastries. A programme of live performances will animate The Aldgate Stage between 12:00-2:30pm and again from 3:30-7:00pm. The day will crescendo with the official Aldgate Christmas Tree Switch-On at 5:00 pm.
Friday 5th December serves as the main event day, running from 3:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The square will buzz with creative workshops and continuous live music. The festival's centrepiece, the iconic Lantern Parade, will weave through the streets of Aldgate from 5:00 pm, creating a magical spectacle. From 6:00 pm, attendees can enjoy a warming free community feast, kindly sponsored by the Howden Group.
New Additions and Extended Activities
The 2025 festival introduces several exciting new elements, extending its reach beyond the core two days. A series of creative workshops will be held on Tuesday 2nd December. Furthermore, a three-week Lantern Trail will be in place, running until 17th December, allowing the magic to linger. The launch for this year's festivities actually begins earlier, with a special event in Petticoat Lane on 27th November.
Whether you wish to perform, volunteer, or simply soak up the atmosphere, the Aldgate in Winter Festival offers a heartwarming opportunity to connect with the local community. With charming photo spots, festive food, and a shared spirit, it's the perfect event to help light up Aldgate this winter.
