Festive celebrations in the capital will begin on 03 November when the Regent Street and Oxford Street Christmas lights will be switched on simultaneously and share the theme of Disney's 'A Christmas Carol'.
The festivities will continue until 05 January 2010 under the overall theme of 'London's Christmas Carol'. During the period, a series of public concerts, events and a world record gathering of carol singers will take place.
The world premier of the new Disney film will kick things off at three cinemas in Leicester Square and stars of the film, Bob Hoskins and Jim Carey, will turn on the lights at Regent Street and Oxford Street respectively.
As part of the evening's festivities on 03 November, St Paul's Cathedral Choir will join the crowds gathered across London in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the biggest ever Christmas carol sing-a-long.
The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson said: "We want to bring to life the magic of Dickens' enduring, much loved classic. With Disney's dazzling lights, plus events in the West End and the City, it's going to be one of the biggest festive celebrations the capital has ever seen. Hosting the world premiere of Disney's 'A Christmas Carol' will kick things off in magnificent style. With the city as its star, fantastic British actors in the cast – and of course Charles Dickens words - where else could it be?"
Visit London Chief Executive Sally Chatterjee said: "I'm delighted that St Paul's will play a key role in London's festive celebrations this year. As one of the most iconic venues in London, it's entirely appropriate that it will take centre stage in making London a compelling destination for visitors."
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