Paddington’s London mural
Paddington Bear has been named Visit London’s first Welcome Ambassador alongside the release of his new film, Paddington in Peru. To celebrate, a colourful mural by Peruvian artist Gisella Stapleton. Inspired by Andean art, it symbolises Paddington’s immigrant journey and his love for his homeland and London. Featuring the quote, “Mrs Brown says that in London everyone is different, and that means anyone can fit in,” the mural reflects the warm welcome Paddington received and extends it to all visitors.
Sutton Walk near Waterloo Station | Until 30 January
New Year’s Day Parade
The London New Year’s Day Parade, held annually, is a significant event featuring over 10,000 performers, including marching bands, cheerleaders, dancers, and floats representing London boroughs and international communities. The parade attracts thousands of spectators, raises funds for charities, and is broadcast internationally.
Piccadilly, Regents Street St James’s, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall | 1 January
January sales
The January sales in London are annual retail events that offer significant discounts and promotions. Popular shopping areas like Oxford Street and Regent Street see increased foot traffic as shoppers take advantage of reduced prices on a wide range of products. It may get crowded sometimes, but it’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy savings.
Twelfth Night Celebrations
Twelfth Night in London is marked by a unique and lively array of events that celebrate the end of the festive season. One of the most notable gatherings takes place on Bankside near the Globe Theatre. This annual event blends traditional customs with theatrical performances. Participants often wear period costumes, adding a historical touch to the occasion. The celebrations typically feature singing, dancing, and the ceremonial ‘crowning’ of a King Bean and Queen Pea, echoing medieval traditions, with spiced drinks, parades, and engaging performances rounding out the festivities.
At Bankside near the Globe Theatre and the George on Borough High Street | 5 January
London International Mime Festival
MimeLondon features four extraordinary performances by international theatre companies, blending puppetry, storytelling, mask work, and cinema-theatre. Highlights include Moby Dick by Plexus Polaire, La Manékine by La Pendue, Not a Word by Brú Theatre, and Five Lines by Frau Trapp. Led by the former directors of the London International Mime Festival.
Barbican | 14 January - 1 February
London Short Film Festival
The 22nd London Short Film Festival (LSFF) showcases diverse voices with 10 days of short films, discussions, and multidisciplinary events. Featuring up to 500 films chosen from more than 5,000 submissions, this BAFTA-affiliated festival also hosts workshops, panels, and special events designed for filmmakers.
Southbank | 17-26 January
Winter Lights
Winter Lights transforms the district into an outdoor art show featuring 11 temporary installations and six permanent artworks. Highlights include glowing bathtubs, a tornado of lights, colourful sari panels, a shimmering rainbow display, and a 20-meter-wide illuminated sinkhole.
Canary Wharf | 21 January - 1 February
Burns Night
Burns Night honours Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. The traditions include poetry recitations, Scottish music, and a haggis supper, often highlighted by Burns’s poem “Address to a Haggis”. The events offer an opportunity to explore Scottish culture and Burns’s literary heritage.
25 January
Vogue Exhibition: Inventing the Runway
This exhibition examines the evolution of fashion runway shows, from 20th-century couture salons to today’s iconic pop-culture moments. Narrated by Cate Blanchett, it features Vogue’s archive and insights from top industry voices.
Lightroom in King’s Cross | Until 26 April
Chinese New Year celebrations
London will celebrate Chinese New Year 2025, marking the Year of the Snake, with some of the largest festivities outside Asia. Highlights include a vibrant parade with dragon and lion dances, traditional music, and cultural performances in Trafalgar Square, featuring acrobatics, martial arts, and Chinese opera. Chinatown and the West End will feature food stalls offering a mix of authentic and modern Chinese cuisine.
Trafalgar Square, Chinatown and the West End | 29 January - 12 February
