The switching on ceremony marks the start of London’s Christmas shopping season.
Funded by over 200 Oxford Street retailers, the event is now in its 52nd year and was presented by Heart 106.2’s Toby Anstis.
This year’s lights have been designed and installed by Piggots and consist of 210,000 carbon neutral LED bulbs which use 75% less energy than conventional bulbs.
Jace Tyrrell of event organisers New West End Company said: “The countdown is on and with 54 shopping days until Christmas day.
“Oxford Street is set attract millions of visitors over the next eight weeks and the 200 flagship stores will be pulling out all the stops to ensure that visitors get the most out of their time in the West End.”
Cllr Colin Barrow, Leader of Westminster City Council, said: “We are delighted to be a big supporter in getting this seasonal tourist attraction up and running every year.
“Business in the capital always benefits from an influx of tourists and keen shoppers who are eager to get into the Christmas spirit – and we hope this year will be no different.”
