Carnaby Street Christmas lights switched on by make-up mogul Charlotte Tilbury
Carnaby Street kicked off the festive season with its dazzling ‘All Is Bright’ display, plus a surprise appearance from a very famous face.
Christmas has officially arrived in Soho as Carnaby Street switched on its ‘All Is Bright’ festive lights, drawing thousands of Londoners to one of the city’s most famous shopping streets.
The annual switch-on event was hosted by presenter and broadcaster AJ Odudu, with beauty mogul Charlotte Tilbury MBE making a surprise appearance to flip the switch and light up the street.
Charlotte, who recently opened a new store on Carnaby Street, was met with cheers as the colourful display illuminated the night sky.
Visitors were treated to live pop-up performances, including a 150-strong flash mob from Some Voices Choir performing All You Need Is Love. AJ Odudu dazzled in a festive make-up look created by Tilbury’s team before leading the crowd through the countdown.
‘Truly magical’
Speaking at the event, Charlotte Tilbury said: “Darlings! I was thrilled to join the celebrations on Carnaby Street to switch on the iconic Christmas lights, right beside my brand-new Beauty Wonderland. It was truly magical to share this special evening with the incredible AJ Odudu and everyone who came down to celebrate. The holiday season has well and truly begun!”
Odudu added: “It’s been such a joy to host the Carnaby Street Christmas lights switch-on. There’s nothing quite like seeing London come together to celebrate the start of the festive season and Carnaby Street always brings a certain magic.”
This year’s ‘All Is Bright’ installation marks the next step in Carnaby’s sustainable, design-led lighting displays, following last year’s innovative scheme. Stretching across Carnaby Street and Kingly Court, the installation features colourful stars and cascading curtains of light, creating a cosy festive backdrop for shoppers and diners.
The 2025 campaign also supports Centrepoint, raising vital funds for young people facing homelessness. Kingly Court will host fundraising events throughout the season, while QR-code donation points will be placed in shops, bars, and restaurants.
Charlotte Tilbury pop-up Carnaby Street
To mark the occasion, Charlotte Tilbury has also launched a Wishing Booth pop-up on Carnaby Street, open from November 6 to 9, where visitors can snap festive photos and share their beauty wishes.
Beyond the lights, Carnaby Street’s vibrant mix of shops and eateries continues to shine. Shoppers can explore festive gifts from GANNI, Farm Rio, Astrid & Miyu, END., and TALA, or enjoy dining spots like Kiln, Rita’s, Mountain, and Cahoots.
And for those looking to soak up even more festive spirit, Soho Nights returns every Wednesday until Christmas, offering live music, late-night shopping, and special offers across Carnaby and Soho.