This year, The Shard’s iconic Christmas light display will shine with a personal touch, celebrating the creativity of 12 talented individuals from within the building itself.
Each of the 12 unique sequences, debuting at 6.45pm on 25 November, has been designed by a member of The Shard community, from office administrators and accountants to designers and illustrators.
Drawn from more than 30 businesses that call The Shard home, these contributors have come together to create a truly original display - a dazzling celebration of light, creativity and community.
Valdas Dragunas is the Deputy Security Operations Manager at The Shard, where he has proudly worked for a decade. A lifelong art enthusiast, Valdas has always expressed creativity through drawing, painting, and graffiti-inspired pieces. His contribution to the Spire Lights festive display was inspired by his deep connection to The Shard and its people, reflecting the building’s unique energy and vibrant spirit. Through bright tones and dynamic composition, his artwork celebrates warmth, joy, and the collective pride shared by everyone who helps make The Shard shine across London’s skyline.
The Shard lights are not used for political or commercial purposes; they simply attempt to mirror London's mood, shining during national celebrations and moments of solidarity.
In 2021, with Big Ben undergoing maintenance, The Shard stepped in to usher in the New Year. The televised countdown featured a poignant tribute to the NHS and frontline keyworkers battling COVID-19, and the event was broadcast live on BBC as well as available on YouTube.
The Shard, can be viewed from points across all 32 boroughs of the city and beyond. In fact, the Shard lights are visible from over 40 miles away.
Being part of The Shard’s Christmas light display feels completely surreal - it’s the kind of project you dream about as a designer. My piece was inspired by how light connects people, like a kaleidoscope of cultures coming together across London. To see that idea brought to life on such a huge scale, shining out across the city, is both humbling and thrilling. I hope when people look up, they feel that same sense of warmth and connection.
Each evening, The Shard transforms into a beacon of brilliance, illuminating the London skyline with vibrant displays and dynamic patterns.
The Shard's lights are visible from numerous iconic London locations, including Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and various rooftop bars and restaurants.
The illuminated Shard has emerged as a symbol of London's vibrant, dynamic spirit, frequently featured as a stunning backdrop in film and providing an iconic setting for the city's most celebrated events and festivities.
The Shard uses energy-efficient LED technology, reducing energy consumption while delivering vibrant illumination.
The lighting displays are designed and controlled by a team of expert lighting designers who program the lights to create dynamic and engaging visuals.
In 2024, Gareth Malone led a six-person choir in a rendition of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" from the spire of The Shard. This performance is believed to be the highest carol recital ever performed on a building.
These FAQs aim to provide you with all of the essential information you need to enjoy The Shard Lights display, all year around.
At the end of civil dusk, The Shard Lights burst into life, with start times that adjust throughout the year. During the height of UK winter, the display may begin as early as 5pm. The lights then mark each hour until 1am, when they gracefully transition into a low-power sustain mode, ensuring that this iconic beacon continues to shine throughout the night.
At The Shard, sustainability is at the core of our design and operations. As one of London’s most iconic landmarks, we are committed to minimising our environmental impact and promoting sustainable living. We are also strive to make improvements and adopt innovative practices to further enhance our environmental performance.
The Shard's lighting system features 575 energy-efficient LED lamps, switching to a low-power mode after 1am to minimise energy use and reduce light pollution.
The Shard's construction was guided by principles of sustainability, using over 20% of recycled steel during the project
During The Shard's development, 95% of the construction waste material was recycled.
Discover The Shard's exceptional facilities, from stunning city views at The View from The Shard to luxurious stays at Shangri-La Hotel, world-class dining, elegant bars, and premium retail and office spaces.
At almost twice the height of any other viewing platform in the capital, The View from The Shard offers visitors unparalleled 360-degree views for up to 40 miles away.
Whether it's impromptu drinks, an intimate dinner or celebrating a special occasion, with seven drinking and dining destinations The Shard offers it all. Come and spend the day in luxury.
The Shard is not simply an iconic building but represents a new approach to expanding the urban landscape. Offices, residences and public spaces alike are all taken skyward.
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