London's Festive Season Kicks Off October 27
A calendar of major Christmas events includes ice rinks, light switch-ons, and theatre.
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London's 2026 Christmas season will commence on 27 October with the opening of the play 'Christmas Carol Goes Wrong' on stage, as reported by Londonist. This marks the earliest start for seasonal theatre productions, with further Scroogey shows planned into January.
Ice Rinks and Light Switch-Ons
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The first ice rink of the festive period, Skate Leicester Square, is set to open on 31 October 2026. Following this, major Christmas light switch-ons will begin. Carnaby's illuminations are scheduled for 4 November 2026, with Regent Street's lights to follow on 5 November 2026. Other notable ice rinks opening in November include Glide at Battersea Power Station on 6 November, Skate at Somerset House on 11 November, and Queen's House ice rink in Greenwich on 18 November. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, a significant attraction, is scheduled to open its gates on 19 November 2026.
Further Festive Attractions
The festive calendar extends into December with several themed attractions. The Polar Express train ride is set to begin its journeys from Euston on 5 December 2026. Additionally, the Santa Express will offer festive round trips from Victoria station on 12 December and 19 December 2026. Other events include the Spirit of Christmas Fair and Southbank Centre's Winter Market, both opening on 2 November 2026, and Christmas at Kew, which begins on 13 November 2026.
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The Londonist has compiled a calendar of these and other major festive events, providing dates for Christmas markets, light switch-ons, and ice skating opportunities across the capital for the 2026 season.
Questions this report answers
+When does the Christmas season officially start in London for 2026?
The 2026 Christmas season in London begins on 27 October with the opening of the stage production 'Christmas Carol Goes Wrong', according to Londonist. This marks the earliest start for a major festive event of the year.
+What are the key dates for Christmas light switch-ons in London in 2026?
The first major festive illuminations will be Carnaby's Christmas lights, switched on on 4 November 2026. Regent Street's lights are scheduled to be switched on the following day, 5 November 2026.
+When can people go ice skating at London's festive rinks in 2026?
The first ice rink, Skate Leicester Square, opens on 31 October 2026. Other rinks include Glide at Battersea Power Station on 6 November and Skate at Somerset House on 11 November, with Hyde Park Winter Wonderland opening on 19 November 2026.
+Are there any special train rides for Christmas in London in 2026?
Yes, The Polar Express train ride is scheduled to start from Euston on 5 December 2026. Additionally, the Santa Express will run festive round trips from Victoria station on 12 and 19 December 2026.
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