Deck the Halls...But Not Quite Yet: A Guide to London's (Non-Existent) Summer Christmas Lights
Ah, London in June. The days are long, the Pimm's are flowing, and...wait a minute, where are all the fairy lights? You, dear reader, must be suffering from a serious case of Christmas in July syndrome. Fear not, for while London's streets are currently basking in the warm glow of the actual sun (shocking, we know), Christmas fanatics like ourselves can still partake in a spot of festive cheer (sort of).
So You Want to See Christmas Lights in June? Here's What You WON'T Find:
- Regent Street Angels: Those majestic, light-up guardians won't be gracing the shopping haven with their presence for another few months.
- Oxford Street's Glittering Tunnel: Sadly, this dazzling display is firmly in the off-season. You'll have to wait to experience that "walking through a disco ball" feeling.
- Carnaby Street's Quirky Creations: Those wacky, wonderful illuminations will have to wait for their close-up, come November.
But Fear Not, Fellow Festers! Here's How to Get Your Fix:
- Hit Up a Department Store Basement (Yes, Really): Believe it or not, some die-hard Christmas enthusiasts (retailers, we're looking at you) have been known to stock festive decorations year-round. You might just unearth some fairy lights in the bargain bins!
- String Up Some Twinkle Lights Yourself: Channel your inner interior designer and string up some fairy lights around your own home! It's not quite the same as Oxford Street, but it'll definitely get you in the festive spirit.
- Book a Ticket to a Panto in July? Okay, so this isn't exactly lights on buildings, but pantomimes are practically synonymous with Christmas in the UK. Belt out some classic Christmas carols (a little early, but who cares?) and get your dose of festive cheer.
Remember: Desperate times call for desperate measures. While London might not be sporting its Christmas finery just yet, there are still ways to keep the holiday spirit alive (or, you know, invent your own summer Christmas light tradition).
FAQs for the Particularly Festive:
How to convince my friends I've seen the Christmas lights already? A: Sunglasses and dramatic claims of "blinding lights" should do the trick.
How to explain the fairy lights in my house in June? A: Blame it on cultural immersion! You're just celebrating an obscure, light-based summer solstice festival...from a very specific region.
How to deal with the overwhelming urge to deck the halls in June? A: Distract yourself with summer activities! Ice cream sundaes, anyone?
How to book tickets to a July panto? A: Start searching online – the earlier the better, these things get booked up fast!
How to find out when the actual Christmas lights are on in London? A: Keep an eye out on websites like Visit London closer to November. They'll have all the official info.
