Musicians heralded the start of Christmas in Wembley Park as the capital’s “tallest digital tree” was lit up.
A socially-distanced brass quartet from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra played live seasonal favourites at the launch of the festive display, United in Light, outside the London Designer Outlet (LDO).
Quintain, Wembley Park’s regeneration giant, wasn’t about to allow a dark shadow over the area in these pandemic times.
The 25-metre Christmas tree named Aurora Arbour returns, containing a 100,000 LED light display.
Artist Sian Bliss based the installation “on the spectacular and magical movements of a winter night’s sky because we can all see the same sky even when we are separated”.
The neighbourhood also includes digital animations and illustrations featuring sunrises, moon cycles and aurora borealis across Bobby Moore Bridge, four digital totems and 14 LED banners along Olympic Way.
Festive selfie-spots are dotted around, including a Star Box - a giant gift-box shaped cube filled with glowing golden lights and shimmering sequins.
Visitors can step inside a Bauble, an enormous illuminated Christmas decoration on Weaver Walk, or enjoy the Angel Wings outside the new Wembley Park Market Emporium on Market Square.
The LDO is ready to reopen with “extensive health and safety measures” and free parking after 5pm from December 2.
A programme of socially distanced, family entertainment is planned throughout the month.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, which moved its headquarters to Wembley Park, will also perform in the LDO.
Huw Davies, deputy managing director of the orchestra, said: “Musicians from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra are thrilled to have made another appearance at the orchestra’s new home in Wembley Park, this time delivering a good dose of festive joy and Christmas cheer performing some seasonal favourites.”
Josh McNorton, Quintain’s cultural director, said the company was “excited” to launch United in Light and Aurora Arbour, “London’s tallest LED Christmas tree”.
“Our Christmas lights aim to deliver hope and joy to family and friends at a time when they need it most,” he added.
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