Lantern Parade & Christmas Lights Switch-On
Children from local primary schools carry handmade lanterns in a glowing procession through the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College and Cutty Sark Gardens to Greenwich Market. Crowds gather to count down the switch-on as the market illuminates with sparkling festive displays. Visitors can browse market stalls and shops, enjoy food, and experience live music and performances.
What to Expect
Schoolchildren parade handmade lanterns leading up to the market lights countdown.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Greenwich
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Greenwich Market
Food & Drink
The event invites visitors to eat while enjoying the celebrations, but it does not specify particular food or drink offerings.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and joyful
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm; Christmas Lights Switch-On at 5pm.
- Parking: Off-street pay-and-display car parks are available at Park Row, Burney Street and Greenwich Park; public transport is recommended because nearby roads are very busy.
- Accessibility: The market is on one level and wheelchair accessible, though areas may become crowded.
Tips & Advice
- Use public transport if you can, as roads around Greenwich town centre are very busy and the market has train, DLR, bus and river connections.
- Walk from Greenwich station or Greenwich Pier, or use the DLR stop across the road from the market.
- Arrive in time to see the lantern procession travel from the Old Royal Naval College grounds through Cutty Sark Gardens to the market.
- Make time to browse the stalls and shops and enjoy food, live music and performances after the procession.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the parade suitable for?
The event is described as suitable for the whole family; children from local primary schools take part in the procession.
What happens during the celebrations?
Children carry handmade lanterns through the Old Royal Naval College grounds and Cutty Sark Gardens to Greenwich Market, where the crowd counts down to the lights switch-on. Live music and performances follow.
Can visitors buy food and browse stalls?
Yes. Visitors can eat, shop at the market stalls and shops, and enjoy the festivities.
What are the options for getting to Greenwich Market?
You can travel by train, DLR, bus, riverboat, bike or on foot. The market is a short walk from Greenwich train station and Greenwich Pier, and the DLR stop is across the road.
Where can drivers park?
Off-street pay-and-display car parks are available at Park Row, Burney Street and Greenwich Park; public transport is recommended because roads around Greenwich town centre are very busy.
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