Chelsea will come alive with its annual dusting of Christmas magic when the neighbourhood kicks off the most wonderful time of the year on the afternoon of Saturday 18 November for the Chelsea Christmas Lights Switch-On.

The afternoon will be an enchanting opportunity to celebrate this magical time of year with friends and family as the King’s Road is pedestrianised for the third year running from Sloane Square to Walpole Street, making way for a Christmas market, face painting, mulled wine and festive fizz.

There will be roaming performances across the neighbourhood and captivating festive entertainment on the King’s Road stage just moments from the Christmas edition of the Fine Food Market at Duke of York Square, where you can shop for festive foodie gifts as you sip on a warming cup of glühwein or hot chocolate. 

And be sure to walk through the magical festive arcade at Duke of York Square, which will be decorated with a 12 Days of Christmas theme, from the partridge in its pear tree and the French hens to the geese a-laying, the drummers drumming, and the lords a-leaping. It’s the perfect spot for festive selfies. 

Many neighbourhood businesses will be hosting special festive activities, including a  Sipsmith sloe gin apple juice pop-up bar from The Botanist, a butler serving champagne and nibbles and an in-store florist creating complimentary bouquets for shoppers at the new Jessica McCormack boutique, and a rock-star book-signing at Partridges, where ex-Rolling Stone Bill Wyman will be signing copies of his new book, Bill Wymans Chelsea: From Medieval Village to Cultural Capital from 12-1pm. 

Rudolph and all his reindeer pals will be on the running track outside the Saatchi Gallery before they take off for their busy Christmas delivery schedule with Father Christmas, who will be turning on the lights at 5pm with the assistance of a special helper, a local child at the top of the ‘Nice’ list.

As the streets light up with festive twinkle, transforming Chelsea into London’s most magical Christmastime neighbourhood, dazzling swathes of sparkling garlands and regal crowns will glitter to life before a spectacular fireworks display and magical snowfall wraps up a truly unforgettable day.

For further information and the full programme of festive fun, please details visit chelseachristmas.co.uk.

READ OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS