The festive season has officially arrived in the capital, ushered in by a glittering roster of A-list celebrities tasked with switching on London's iconic Christmas lights for 2025. From Hollywood royalty to pop icons and national treasures, the city has witnessed a spectacular return of the celebrity switch-on tradition this November.
A Star-Studded Line-Up for 2025
This year's festivities have seen an impressive array of famous faces bringing holiday cheer to the city's most famous streets. The celebrations kicked off with Vanessa Williams, who brought her signature star power to the West End, officially illuminating the famous Oxford Street display last week. The event drew massive crowds eager to see the Hollywood actress light up the iconic thoroughfare.
This week, the spotlight shifted south of the river, where pop legend Kylie Minogue performed the honours at the Battersea Power Station. The event attracted huge crowds, with fans gathering to watch the singer illuminate the station's glittering festive displays, marking a major moment in the capital's seasonal calendar.
More Famous Faces Across the Capital
They were far from the only celebrities bestowed with the honour this year. In a delightful reunion for fans of the hit show Celebrity Traitors, stars Celia Imrie and Sir Stephen Fry came together to celebrate the lighting of Covent Garden. They were joined by a host of other renowned figures, including actress Hayley Atwell, Sir Derek Jacobi, Dame Darcey Bussell, Matt Henry MBE, and Stephen Mangan for a truly ensemble switch-on.
Meanwhile, the vibrant and colourful lights of Carnaby Street were activated by beauty mogul Charlotte Tilbury, who was accompanied by presenter AJ Ododu. Each location offered a unique festive experience, with the celebrity involvement adding an extra layer of excitement for Londoners and visitors alike, all eager to kick off the holiday season in style.
A Festive Atmosphere Returns
The collective efforts of these celebrities have successfully bathed London in a festive glow, signalling the start of the holiday period. The return of such a high-profile line-up for the Christmas lights switch-on events has generated significant public enthusiasm and media attention, proving that this beloved tradition remains a cornerstone of the city's seasonal celebrations. The illuminated streets now offer a magical backdrop for shopping, dining, and enjoying the unique atmosphere of London during the most wonderful time of the year.
