Regent Street Christmas lights 2025: Iconic angels light up London once again
Regent Street and St James’s have officially kicked off Christmas in London with the return of their famous Spirit of Christmas lights. The dazzling angel displays mark a decade of festive sparkle in the West End.
The West End was aglow last night (November 6) as Regent Street and St James’s switched on their much-loved ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ lights, marking the official start of the festive season in central London.
Now in their 10th year, the dazzling displays once again brought festive cheer to thousands who gathered to see the iconic angels illuminate the streets.
The lights will continue to shine each evening until 4 January 2026, transforming the area into a winter wonderland.
This year’s display pays homage to the original 1954 installation, which first introduced the angelic figures to Regent Street.
Today’s version features more than 30 ‘Spirits’ crafted from over 300,000 LED lights, all powered by an energy-efficient timer system to reduce energy use.
The lights extend beyond Regent Street, illuminating nearby Jermyn Street, Glasshouse Street, Swallow Street, and the elegant Princes and Quadrant Arcades.
Over in St James’s Market, visitors can also discover an illuminated Wishing Tree, where a tap-to-donate feature allows people to give £5 to The Felix Project — a London charity tackling food waste and hunger — while triggering a twinkling light display.
Festive celebrations filled the streets during the switch-on event, with performances from London choirs singing Christmas classics and appearances from the Hamleys elves, who delighted families as the lights came to life.
What time do the Regent Street Christmas lights switch on?
Visitors can enjoy The Spirit of Christmas every day from 3pm to midnight until the new year, with plenty of opportunities to shop, dine, and celebrate along the way. The Christmas lights will remain up until January 4 2026.
From flagship fashion and lifestyle stores to fine dining and cosy bars, Regent Street and St James’s offer a festive experience that captures the very best of London in the holiday season.
For more information, visit regentstreetonline.com and stjameslondon.co.uk.