Oxford Street confirms Christmas lights return date

Oxford Street has announced its famous Christmas lights will be switched on from Monday 2 November 2020, without an official switch on ceremony.

This year the 27 LED light curtains which run the entire length of the world famous shopping street, which originally debuted last Christmas, will display a "heartwarming poem" created in partnership with department store, Selfridges.

The lights will be on display earlier than usual to give visitors more time to make the most of the festive season and enjoy the West End shopping and hospitality.

Luciana Magliocco, Associate Director at New West End Company said: "This year, we are delighted to have worked in partnership with Selfridges to create a very special seasonal display that plays tribute to our great city but also shines the light on heroes up and down the country.

"We look forward to welcoming Londoners and visitors to Oxford Street to enjoy our Christmas lights, magical window displays and extensive festive offering, in a safe and comfortable environment."

The lights will shine daily until Wednesday 6 January 2021.

Yesterday, The British Retail Consortium launched a new nationwide advertising campaign calling for consumers to start doing their Christmas shopping earlier this year, to help spread demand during the coronavirus pandemic.