Discover Our Festive Programme for 2026
From London’s tallest Christmas tree and a spectacular switch-on with Davina McCall to Dickensian festivities, creative workshops and seasonal surprises, discover Christmas in the Eastern City.
This November and December, Eastern City BID is bringing festive magic to the heart of the City of London with a programme of seasonal events, installations and experiences for workers, residents and visitors to enjoy.
We’re kicking off the celebrations on Thursday 12 November at 5.30pm with the spectacular switch-on of London’s tallest Christmas tree at One Bishopsgate Plaza, in partnership with Pan Pacific London.
Joined by special guest Davina McCall, the switch-on promises an evening of festive cheer, Christmas carols and sparkling lights. The event is free to attend and open to everyone, so come along and celebrate the start of the festive season with us!
What’s On This Christmas?
Inspired by the charm of a traditional London Christmas, our festive programme brings together a host of activities and experiences across the Eastern City:
- London’s Tallest Christmas Tree | 12 November – 9 January: Experience the magic of Christmas at One Bishopsgate Plaza, alongside beautifully decorated community Christmas trees across the district.
- Letters to Santa | 16 November – 20 December: Post your Christmas wishes on Birchin Lane for the chance to win a Pan Pacific London gift voucher or Christmas hamper.
- Traditional Christmas Sweet Cart | 17–19 November and 8–10 December: Look out for complimentary old-fashioned sweets at various locations across the Eastern City.
- The Eastern City Festive Fair | 24–28 November: Step into a Dickensian Christmas on Lime Street, with traditional market stalls, seasonal treats, festive workshops and Victorian characters.
- Christmas Creative Workshops | 17 November – 9 December: Get creative with wreath-making, gingerbread decorating, festive calligraphy, embroidery and more.
- Dickensian Christmas Walking Tours | 26 November and 9 December: Discover the Eastern City’s festive past through historic landmarks, ghost stories and Victorian Christmas traditions.
- A Creative Christmas at Eastern City Studios | 1–5 December: Enjoy a week of free festive workshops and hands-on activities at 130 Fenchurch Street.
- A Visit from Santa | 10 December: Look out for Father Christmas around the Eastern City.
- Lloyd’s of London Festive Decorations: Visitors can also enjoy a spectacular festive installation at the iconic Lloyd’s of London building, complete with a giant Christmas wreath, twinkling lights and traditional decorations.
From bringing iconic spaces to life to creating opportunities for people to connect, Eastern City BID’s Christmas programme is part of our ongoing commitment to making the area a vibrant and welcoming destination to work, visit and explore.
Join us this festive season and discover the magic of Christmas in the Eastern City! Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for further event details and workshop booking information.