Christmas Lights In London

London"s Christmas lights may come in a variety of shapes and sizes but the three

main ingredients that are needed to ensure a knockout yuletide display are long dark nights, an attractive backdrop and bags of imagination. London has an abundance of all three of these qualities and a quick jaunt around the city will reveal sights that are bound to live long in the memory of residents and visitors alike.

Starting at the central location of Trafalgar Square, we find a traditional Christmas tree that has been an annual gift to Britain from the people of Norway since the end of World War II. The tree is decorated in a distinctive Scandinavian style incorporating vertical lights and forms a beautiful centerpiece in the square, surrounded by fountains and statues. The story behind the tree is one of sacrifice and gratitude as the two countries stood shoulder to shoulder against tyranny and oppression all those years ago. The lights remain an evocative symbol of peace, hope and freedom.

A short stroll northwards brings us to the pedestrianised haven of Carnaby Street, which has long been associated with all that is trendy and hip about London. The Christmas lights here take full advantage of this, featuring a Rolling Stones inspired installation that celebrates the band's fiftieth year in show business. The feeling around here is that these lights will still be relevant ten years from now!

Should you hanker after a more traditional Christmas experience, then it is best to head over to Covent Garden which with typical theatrical flair has provided not only lights, but a digitally rendered nativity scene that adds new characters as the Biblical story unfolds. Cutting edge light installations make use of the ornate dome above the Market Building to display hundreds of energy efficient coloured tubes to dazzling effect. Carol singing and live reindeer complete the festivities.

The main shopping thoroughfares of Oxford Street and Regent Street feature big, bold designs that have a distinctly international theme and showcase the latest Hollywood blockbuster themes. They are sure to get shoppers in the mood as they visit Selfridges, John Lewis and a host of big retail chains that have all pulled out the stops when it comes to decorating and illuminating their shop windows.

Even during the summer months, Marylebone High Street is one of the most atmospheric shopping districts in London. The Christmas season makes a stroll along its' pavements a rare treat. Carols sung by school kids, mulled wine and some of the most delicately exquisite festive lights you will ever see are guaranteed to delight purists and complement the wealth of exotic luxury goods on offer. Westfield Stratford Shopping Centre is a short train ride away in East London and makes full use of the massive floor and ceiling space available to it with jaw dropping light displays and enormous crystalline snowflakes.

In Hampstead, a popular North West London area where celebrities and other arty folk like to rent property, there is a strong villagey feel and Hampstead"s Christmas lights are always decorative and charming. In keeping with the handsome Victorian and well-proportioned Georgian architecture, Hampstead"s Christmas lights are notable with illuminated trees, baubled hanging floral baskets and a 10ft Christmas tree sponsored by Benham and Reevesimpressively situated in the High Street.

May your Christmas be happy and bright (as Bing Crosby would say)!

by: JessicaSmith

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