Welcome to your London events guide for this week! Today, Thursday December fourth, is shaping up to be a magical evening in the capital. The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is getting its grand switch-on ceremony tonight, continuing a tradition that stretches back to nineteen forty-seven when Norway first gifted London this beautiful tree as thanks for assistance during World War Two. It's the first Thursday of the month, so expect twinkling lights and festive cheer as thousands gather around this iconic symbol of the season.If you're looking for something happening right now, head to Aldgate in Winter where the big launch party is underway from noon to two in the afternoon. There's mulled wine, hot chocolate, and free pastries, plus live performances on the Aldgate Stage. They're switching on their Christmas tree at five o'clock, so you've got plenty of time to soak in that warm, festive atmosphere.Moving into Friday, December fifth, the lantern parade at Aldgate is a must-see. Local primary school children showcase their glowing creations, lighting up the neighbourhood as they parade through the streets. It's completely free and genuinely magical. You can also explore the free trail to spot lanterns illuminating local windows throughout the fortnight.The weekend is absolutely packed with possibilities. Saturday, December sixth, brings the pedestrianisation of Regent Street from two to nine in the evening. Three bright red double-decker buses will be stationed along this gorgeously curved shopping thoroughfare offering everything from photography opportunities with the glowing angel-themed lights to disco DJs and craft workshops. Regent Street was actually the very first road in London to put up Christmas lights back in nineteen fifty-four, so there's real history there.If shopping is your thing, Christmas markets are flourishing across the city. You can browse the Finnish Church Christmas Fair in Rotherhithe, check out the Japanese Christmas Market at Dalston, or explore Sid's and Friends Christmas Fair in south London. All are happening over the weekend with free entry.For families, Burgess Park is hosting a free costumed reindeer ride on Saturday, perfect for children who want to get into the festive spirit. And if you're after something more immersive, Covent Garden is experiencing scheduled snowfalls from noon to nine in the evening, creating that winter wonderland feeling right in the heart of the city.Thank you so much for tuning in to your London events guide. Be sure to subscribe for more weekly updates on what's happening across the capital. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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