Christmas Isn’t Cancelled: The Oxford Street Lights Switch On Is Going Ahead
There are a few signs that Christmas is on its way – the John Lewis advert hitting the box, the first time you hear All I Want For Christmas since last year and the turning on of the Oxford Street Christmas lights.
We’re still in the dark as to whether John Lewis will still be producing a tear jerking, slowed down cover song-filled ad amidst a global pandemic (fingers crossed), but we can guarantee Christmas is not cancelled, even in COVID-19 times, as the big Oxford Street lights switch on is still going ahead – phew!
As with everything, it will look a little different this year. Firstly, no big celebrity will be present to press the big red button or entertain the crowds (previous button pushers have included the likes of Kylie, Cheryl and the Spice Girls). We imagine this is to ensure the crowds don’t gather for the big event. And secondly, the lights will come with a touching message; a tribute to the strength and resilience of Londoners through one of the most testing years in modern history.
As always, the LED curtains that run the length of the famous street will return, this year showcasing a heartwarming poem honouring those who have shown incredible acts of kindness, care and support throughout the pandemic.
Twenty-seven of the LED light curtains will be hung, amassing to a megawatt 222,000 lights and they will be launching two weeks earlier than usual this year, on November 2nd, so that the crowds have more time to view the twinkling installation without everyone rushing to see it all at the same time.
If you’re in the area doing some Christmas shopping, make sure you take a look at the neighbouring lit up districts, Carnaby Street and Regent Street too, both of which always have an impressive array of Christmas lights and decorations.
Christmas might be a little different this year, but it’s definitely still on.
The Oxford Street Christmas Lights will be switched on on Monday 2nd November. No official event will be held due to social distancing measures.
