This is a sponsored article on behalf of St James's London.
Mark Thursday 15 November in your diary — it's the date the 2018 St James's Christmas lights are switched on, and it'll get you right in the Christmas spirit.
The unique neighbourhood of central London — packed with shops, bars and restaurants clustered to the south of Piccadilly — will be illuminated with a gorgeous array of twinkling lights, marking the official start of a Christmas like no other. Be serenaded by a live choir performing Christmas classics (singing along very much encouraged) and enjoy the luxury of a pedestrianised Jermyn Street, with street entertainment adding to the festive atmosphere.
As well as the lights being switched on, a late night shopping event takes place the same evening, making it the ideal chance to get a head start on your Christmas shopping in the area's world-famous stores.
40 local shops and restaurants keep their doors open late, and many have special discounts for the event. Think 20% off orders from Cubitts, and a Christmas themed pop-up bar among the gorgeous handmade leather goods of Aspinal of London. And, when you need a pitstop, tuck into a special £20 menu at Michelin-starred restaurant Ikoyi.
Make the most of Turnbull & Asser’s monogramming service on cotton items such as shirts and boxers, and be one of the first to get your hands on Floris’ recently launched fragrance A Rose For…, which gives you the opportunity to personalise your perfume bottle.
But, what's the point of splashing out on other people's Christmas gifts if you can't treat yourself? Get Christmas-jumper-ready with one of John Smedley's luxurious extra fine Merino Wool offerings, and stock up on the all important Christmas supplies; Berry Bros & Rudd wine experts offer mixed cases from just £35. Pair them with a delicious combination of hard, soft and blue cheeses from Paxton & Whitfield, and that's Christmas pretty much wrapped up.
Make sure you pop back to St James's in the run up to Christmas too — themed masterclasses will take place in St James's Market, including a chance to learn how to make a wool wreath, decorate gingerbread houses, and master calligraphy to give your Christmas cards and gift tags some extra pizzazz this year.
We feel all festive just thinking about it.
St James's Christmas Light Switch On and late night shopping event takes place on Thursday 15 November 2018, and is free to attend. The lights will be switched on at 5.45pm. Follow St James's on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more information about the event.
