Christmas is coming in big steps and at least for London’s high street, the season is in full swing. Oxford street has officially done its major “Switching on the Lights Ceremony” on Sunday – with no less than Kylie Minogue pushing the button. Others will follow with their own ceremonies during November, but my favourite Christmas lighting – and “Christmas Shopping Event” (while I generally avoid those) last year took place in Carnaby Street (see picture above).

As you can see above, there is a bit of a funky twist in this shopping area just around the corner of the big Oxford and Regent’s streets. Carnaby Street consists of the famous street itself, as well as the Kingley Court Shopping Centre and the streets surrounding. In total more than 100 shops, from famous lifestyle brands (Puma, DocMartin etc.) to small and hip shops. Not your Shoreditch “too cool for school” hipstery, but just a bit edgier than the main shopping streets. Next to that a few bars / restaurants in and around Kingley Court make it a great destination for an afternoon / evening of shopping.

Bargain Hunters mark your agenda – Carnaby Street will switch on their lights in a great event with “DJs, live music, complimentary food & drinks, a pop-up bar and loads of on-street and in-store activities” – and 20% off in most stores. Last year, it was great fun and the 20% were quite genuine discounts (so few of the usual exclusions)! The event is on Thursday 12th November from 5-9pm. To get the discount and a free drink, you need to register to get a free ticket.