LONDON, ON – Downtown for the Holidays, sponsored by London Hydro, returns this year with a full lineup of festive experiences designed to bring the community together and celebrate the spirit of the season. Residents and visitors can look forward to dazzling lights, live entertainment, holiday markets, and free family activities across the core from late November through New Year’s Eve.
The holiday season officially begins with the City of London’s annual Lighting of the Lights on Friday, December 5, at Victoria Park, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Londoners are invited to watch Victoria Park transform into a dazzling winter wonderland. More than 100,000 lights and festive displays, including Santa and his reindeer, a Christmas train, and a cheerful snow family, will illuminate the park and bring holiday magic to downtown. The park will remain a Winter Wonderland nightly until January 16, 2026.
The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with live music from The Rockin’ Reindeer, led by rising artist John Fellner and local musicians. Guests can enjoy the 360° photo booth, place their holiday wish list in Santa’s mailbox, indulge in food truck offerings and enjoy a free hot cider sample, courtesy of Farm Boy. The ceremonial flip of the switch at approximately 6:50 p.m. marks the official start of the holiday season in downtown London.
City Hall Observation Deck: Visitors can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Victoria Park and its holiday lights from the City Hall observation deck on select evenings in December, including Friday, December 5, and weekends from December 6–7, 11–14, 18–21, and 26–28, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.
Victoria Park Washrooms: Access is available daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Kiwanis Memorial Bandshell, and visitors can contact a nearby security guard for assistance if needed. The outdoor skating rink will not be open for the Lighting of the Lights; weather permitting, it will open in mid-December, with details to be shared closer to the date.
Following the Lighting of the Lights, the festivities continue at Covent Garden Market with the annual Holly Jolly Holiday Market, running Fridays to Sundays from December 5 to 21. Guests can explore food and artisan vendors and admire the huge Christmas tree in Market Square. Activities include horse and carriage rides, a Christmas cocktail garden, holiday workshops, a Kids Craft Corner, live music and entertainment, and photos with Santa.
The tree lighting in Rotary Square takes place at 7:45 p.m. on December 5, marking the start of a festive weekend tradition.
A full December calendar filled with holiday events and family-friendly activities will be released soon, helping Londoners plan their festive season.
Visitors can also take part in the Downtown for the Holidays Trail, running from November 28 to December 31. This interactive trail encourages residents and visitors to explore Downtown London’s cozy cafes, sparkling décor, holiday feasts, and local shops filled with gift inspiration. Participants can earn points with every check-in and redeem Downtown London gift cards, swag, and more throughout their holiday journey.
Downtown businesses are also participating in the Holiday Window Contest, where visitors can vote for their favourite festive display starting November 28 by scanning the QR code displayed in participating business windows. Head downtown to enjoy the seasonal displays and cast your vote for the window that captures the spirit of the holidays.
Additional festive attractions include Candy Cane Lane at Market Lane (December 5 – January 5) and Carousel Rides at the corner of King and Talbot, in front of Canada Life Place (Jubilee Square) on December 11–14 and December 19–21. Both activities are free to enjoy.
As the month progresses, Victoria Park will host a free New Year’s Eve in the Park celebration on Wednesday, December 31, from 7:00 p.m. to 12:20 a.m. The event will feature fireworks, live music, and entertainment, giving visitors one final night of holiday lights while welcoming 2026 in the heart of downtown.
Downtown for the Holidays is sponsored by London Hydro, Auburn Development, LAV, Tricar, Bell Media with Virgin Radio, Pure Country, and CTV, London Arts Council and with support from the Paul Seed Fund.
The Lighting of the Lights event is sponsored by Farm Boy, and the Winter Wonderland light display is supported by Downtown London, London Community Foundation, Canada Life, Architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson, and CUPE Local 107.
The program is delivered in partnership with Downtown London, Covent Garden Market, Dundas Place, Tourism London, and the City of London.
Visit downtownfortheholidays.ca for more information.
For more information or comments, please contact:
Brent Hodson
Marketing and Communications Manager
Downtown London
[email protected]
519-663-2002
About Downtown London
Downtown London is the catalyst and connector for a shared community vision of London’s downtown, on behalf of members, in partnership with the City of London and in support of major economic development, cultural, educational, and private sector stakeholders.
Our mission is to steward the levy paid by member businesses by leading and championing programs and investments that make London’s downtown a destination of choice and an economic centre that supports the entire community.
