While we were in London a few weeks ago, we saw the various authorities hanging up the lights and getting ready for Christmas. We were gutted that we would miss the switch-ons by only a few days. There really is something truly magical about the Christmas lights in London. Oxford Street has now turned theirs on.
The festive season has officially arrived on Oxford Street! In a magical moment that lit up one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations, award-winning singer-songwriter Tom Grennan switched on Oxford Street’s famous Christmas lights on November 4th. Joining him was Emily Mullen, a brave young girl who has received life-changing care from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). This year, Oxford Street’s holiday display was dedicated to supporting GOSH Charity, a cause that resonates with Londoners and visitors alike.
With dazzling stars illuminating the street, Oxford Street becomes the first in the capital to bring the holiday spirit to life, creating a starry canopy made of over 300,000 LED lights, all crafted from recycled materials and using 75% less energy than standard bulbs. This year, the lights will shine nightly from 4 pm until midnight.
Tom Grennan also marked the occasion by releasing his latest festive single, It Can’t Be Christmas (Amazon Music Original), an upbeat track sure to bring warmth to the season. Available exclusively on Amazon Music, the song adds to the cheer filling the skies and streets of Oxford Street.
“It’s a huge honor to be invited to turn on this year’s Christmas lights on Oxford Street,” said Grennan. “There’s nowhere more iconic than Oxford Street for the holidays, and I’m thrilled to be supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. They do such amazing work for children across the UK, giving them the best chance and best childhood possible.”
Emily Mullen, who helped light up the street, has a story of courage and resilience. Born with a severe heart condition, Emily spent the first three months of her life at GOSH, undergoing open-heart surgery at just seven days old. Her recovery was touch-and-go, but thanks to the incredible work at GOSH, Emily has since received transformative care. Today, she continues to receive support for multiple health challenges, including severe sight loss.
Emily’s guardian, Val, shared how meaningful this time of year is for them: “Christmas is special for Emily—she loves the lights and the magic. We were told she wouldn’t make it to her first Christmas, so it’s a truly magical time for our family.”
GOSH Charity works tirelessly to improve the lives of seriously ill children. Throughout the Christmas season, donations collected through the Oxford Street website and in-store fund life-saving research, child-centered facilities, and vital support services, such as free family accommodations near the hospital.
Big Day of JOY: Festivities Continue on Oxford Street
The partnership between Oxford Street and GOSH Charity brings a unique opportunity to spread goodwill. Mark your calendar for December 7th, when Oxford Street will host the Big Day of JOY—an all-day event filled with live performances, festive activities, and in-store experiences to celebrate the season. A portion of sales and donations will go toward GOSH Charity, helping to bring Christmas cheer to the young patients and families at GOSH.
Visitors to Oxford Street this season can indulge in the many festive activities available. From Santa’s Grotto at John Lewis to holiday shopping at Selfridges and eco-friendly gift wrapping at Lush, there’s something for everyone. This is also the perfect time to check out Oxford Street’s newest cultural highlights, like the immersive Frameless art experience and the MOCO Museum.
For those who want to give back, the lights on Oxford Street are a reminder of the season’s spirit of generosity. Every donation to GOSH Charity makes a difference, helping to fund everything from critical care equipment to joyful holiday activities, such as carol singing and Santa visits at the hospital.
A Christmas Tradition with Heart
Oxford Street’s Christmas lights are a cherished London tradition, drawing visitors from near and far. Dee Corsi, CEO at New West End Company, spoke of the lights’ significance this year: “This partnership with GOSH Charity allows all of us to share in the joy of giving and help create the best possible future for children in need. We invite everyone to be part of this incredible cause, whether by donating online or shopping with us during the festive season.”
This holiday season, the lights on Oxford Street remind us all of the spirit of community, compassion, and the joy of giving. As you stroll under the shimmering stars, take a moment to make a difference for children and families at GOSH, ensuring that this Christmas, hope shines as brightly as the lights above.
Author: Jonathan Thomas
Jonathan is a consummate Anglophile who launched Anglotopia.net in 2007 to channel his passion for Britain. Londontopia is its sister publication dedicated to everything London.