Aldgate Square

It’s time for the big switch-on of Aldgate’s always-impressive Christmas tree and lights, and to mark the occasion, they’re putting on a huge winter festival with music, free festive foods and parades. Head along on Thursday Dec 4, for mulled wine, hot chocolate and pastry giveaways (12noon to 2pm), live performances on The Aldgate Stage (12noon-2:30pm and 3:30pm-7pm), and don’t miss the big Christmas tree switch-on at 5pm. On Friday Dec 5, the square will host its iconic Lantern Parade, which will wind through the streets of Aldgate from 5pm, followed by a free community feast from 6pm.  This year’s festival also features creative workshops on Tuesday Dec 2. There'll also be a three-week Lantern Trail running until December 17, with giant lanterns made by local primary schools illuminating windows across Aldgate.