Celebrate Christmas in Soho and Carnaby Street

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This festive season, Soho & Carnaby Street is a must visit destination featuring a line-up of the best shopping, dining and experiences including, daily light shows, live musical performances, exclusive menus, and in-store activations.

Carnaby Street’s festive light display, Into The Light, is a stunning blend of contemporary form and function, embodying a golden glow that reflects both Carnaby Street’s heritage and its role as a cultural tastemaker.

A first for Christmas lights in London, the installation will feature mesmerising hourly light displays, with star-shaped features and over 6-metre-long sculptural light forms suspended above the street and thousands of energy-efficient LED bulbs shimmering across the street. ‘Into The Light’ brings an architectural approach to Christmas, marking the first step into a long term, more sustainable, five-year lighting scheme that will transform Carnaby Street into a must-see destination each holiday season.

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Under the golden glow of the lights sit 30 Christmas trees lining Carnaby Street adorned in metallic decorations complementing the sculptures above. Just off the street, visitors can also discover Kingly Court where twinkling curtains of light line the three-storey alfresco food destination.

Carnaby Christmas LightsCarnaby Christmas Lights
Carnaby Christmas Lights

Thousands of Londoners gathered to witness the inaugural unveiling of Into The Light on 7th November. Accompanied by live choir performances, the show debuted a dynamic, hourly light programme, sending light up and down the iconic shopping street, creating an immersive, enchanting atmosphere for visitors.

Global's Make Some Noise is Carnaby Street's official charity partner for this year's festive season.

The partnership promises to spread both festive cheer and meaningful impact through street activations. Visitors can find multiple fundraising points where passers-by can help make a difference, as well as a Christmas pop-up, The Gingerbread Shed, at the junction of Broadwick Street and Carnaby Street from 2 December, offering hot chocolate all week long and mulled wine from Thursday to Sunday and 15% of the proceeds donated to Global's Make Some Noise.

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Proceeds will go towards supporting vital projects and changing lives across the UK. Carnaby Street and Global's Make Some Noise will announce details of a themed fundraising day, so stay tuned for some fun festivities and help make a difference.

Carnaby Street and Soho, in partnership with Time Out, hosts Soho Nights every Wednesday until Christmas, a weekly celebration of festive dining, exclusive shopping experiences and live performances. The event offers Londoners the chance to discover special festive discounts, shop exclusive collections and enjoy unique culinary experiences at some of Soho's finest eateries.

Live music and entertainment will take place with weekly choir performances bringing Christmas songs to the streets, along with surprise and delight performances to take place throughout the festive period.

This year’s holiday celebration on Carnaby Street features an impressive line-up of Christmas-themed menus, festive cocktails, and seasonally inspired dishes from some of London’s most beloved eateries – the perfect destination for group bookings, whether you're organising a lively party, a festive gathering, or an intimate dinner, Soho's vibrant atmosphere and diverse selection of spots ensure something for everyone.

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Soho and Carnaby Street has a plethora of choice when it comes to dining – Donia, Imad’s Syrian Kitchen, Kiln and Rita’s are must-visit destinations during the festive period. Donia is perfect for those seeking indulgent, comforting flavours with an unconventional Filipino twist, while Imad’s Syrian Kitchen adds warmth and vibrancy with its authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Kiln is known for its open-fire cooking and bold Thai flavours, while Rita’s offers a menu that combines global influences with festive flair.

Le Bab offers a specially curated Christmas menu and unique holiday experiences, while Brindisa Tapas presents group packages with drinks and canapés, perfect for festive gatherings. Dehesa delights with set menu options and a complimentary prosecco reception, and Miznon lets guests personalise their own Christmas feast with a “build-your-own” festive menu. Dirty Bones serves a holiday menu complete with a drinks package, and KOLAMBA showcases seasonal dishes paired with signature cocktails.

Alongside the festive dining options, Inko Nito will host DJ sets on Thursdays from 6pm to 10m. Nightjar and Ain't Nothing But will add a jazzy flair to the festive atmosphere with live duo performances. The Ganton Arms will host a Pay Day DJ on Friday 29 November from 8pm to midnight.

These spots capture the diverse culinary heartbeat of Soho, making all a must-visit spot this festive period.

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Carnaby Street and Soho is the ultimate shopping destination, offering a unique blend of luxury, creativity, and festive charm. Renowned as one of London’s best shopping hotspots, the vibrant area is home to an array of stores which cater to every style and taste. Explore the glamorous finds at Annie’s Ibiza, perfect for those seeking bold, statement fashion pieces. For streetwear enthusiasts, END. and Adidas Originals deliver the latest drops and exclusive collaborations that make perfect gifts.

Meanwhile, Liberty London offers a magical shopping experience with its beautiful heritage interiors, luxurious fashion, and festive decorations. Fans of minimalist yet statement-making fashion can’t miss Axel Arigato, while Ganni and A Day’s March provide modern, trend-forward pieces for the discerning fashion lover.

For timeless style try Barbour, Dr. Martens offers footwear built to last, and Wolf & Badger features a curated selection of independent designers. Finally, Aesop and Ffern are both a must-visit for those seeking luxury skincare and fragrances.

House of Astrid & Miyu recently opened in Soho, quickly becoming a must-visit destination in the area. The concept store spotlights Astrid & Miyu’s much-loved services offering, with stations for bracelets and anklets, three studios for piercing and fine-line tattoos, making it the perfect Christmas shopping destination. Or perhaps Ray-Ban, Bloobloom or Jimmy Fairly where you can find a selection of stylish glasses.

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For ultimate beauty lovers, Carnaby Street is the perfect destination for festive shopping with iconic beauty brands like MAC Cosmetics, Pixi Beauty and Sculpted by Aimee. MAC Cosmetics is offering a limited-edition advent calendar that beauty enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Featuring 17 full-sized products, including bestsellers and dazzling new shades, it’s the ultimate way to count down to Christmas in style.

Soho is buzzing with exciting new openings that add to the area's unique charm and shopping appeal. Joining the area’s vibrant mix, Donutelier, has become a fan favourite with its donuts that blend art and taste, delighting both locals and visitors. La Maritxu adds a Spanish flair to Soho’s culinary scene with its famous authentic Basque Cheesecake. Other recent arrivals include Carhartt WIP, bringing its iconic workwear-inspired pieces that seamlessly blend durability with urban style. Gorpcore enthusiasts can now also explore Salomon, a brand synonymous with innovation and high-performance footwear, perfectly timed for gifting this festive season.

Jewelry lovers will adore Missoma, offering its contemporary designs and personal touches, ideal for both self-expression and thoughtful Christmas presents. Grown Alchemist introduces a luxurious, science-driven skincare experience, perfect for those looking to glow through the holidays. These exciting recent openings join other newcomers like Goldies, known for its exceptional wood-fire culinary experience and Jimmy Fairly, blending chic eyewear with a sustainable ethos.

Each new opening enhances Soho’s appeal as a dynamic shopping and dining destination, offering fresh experiences for visitors and locals alike.

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