Shopping, parties, catch-ups with your mates: December is busy but there’s still time to fit in this season’s festive happenings too. From fairy-lit Christmas markets to bake-offs, here’s our round-up of what to do and see during the most wonderful time of the year.
1. Get festive at Winter Wonderland
Credit: Winter Wonderland
Twinkling Christmas markets, ice bars (more mulled wine, please) and roller coaster rides under the stars – there’s no better way to kick off December than at Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park. Currently celebrating its tenth year, this annual tribute to festive fun is sure to put everyone in the Christmas spirit. It’s on from now until 2nd January 2017, and entry is completely free.
2. Fangirl over McFly’s greatest hits
Credit: Academy Music Group
If, like us, you spent most of your younger years fangirling over McFly then treat your ears to the ‘Anthology Tour: The Hits Live’. Released on 2nd December, this shiny new album showcases live recordings of the band’s hit tracks, and is perfect for dancing around the living room with your flatmates.
3. Get your skates on at the Royal Pavilion
Credit: More Radio
Whether you’re having a Christmas meet-up with the squad or a planning a date with bae, ice skating is the ultimate festive activity. There are plenty of places to show off your blades of glory this December but one of the most Instagram-worthy locations has to be the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. The ice rink is set against the impressive backdrop of King George IV’s former party palace, and is open to the public until January 15th 2017.
4. Be whisked away with the GBBO Christmas Special
Credit: BBC
Before the fab four go their separate ways (sob!), there’s one last chance to catch Mel, Sue, Mary and Paul in action with the Great British Bake-Off Christmas Special, airing on BBC1 on Christmas Day followed by the second part on Boxing Day. Four former bakers will be back in the tent for three festive challenges, and everyone (yes, even Mary) will be wearing Christmas jumpers. What more could you ask for?
5. Shine bright at the Street of Light
Credit: Scotsman Food & Drink
The festive season wouldn’t be complete without a few Christmas lights and this year, Edinburgh’s Street of Light has pulled out all the stops. Located on the west end of George Street, this dazzling display is made up of 60,000 bulbs that twinkle to synchronised music from local choirs and bands, including the Edinburgh Festival Chorus and the Scotland’s very own bhangra group Tigerstyle. Prepare to be wowed until 24th December.
6. Catch up with the ultimate Gilmore Girl
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Can’t get enough of the Gilmore Girls revival on Netflix? Get the inside scoop with the LOL-worthy personal essays of Lauren Graham – otherwise known as Lorelai Gilmore – in ‘Talking As Fast As I Can: From Gilmore Girls to Gilmore Girls, and Everything in Between’, released on 6th December.
7. Get the giggles at The Comedy Store
Credit: The Comedy Store
If you’re over the whole panto thing but still up for having a few LOLs over the festive season, head down to The Comedy Store in Manchester. They’ll be hosting stand-up comedy nights throughout the month of December, followed by after-show Christmas parties on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Prices start from £4.