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We all have that friend who gets Christmas-ready too early. You’ve barely had a chance to Instagram your pumpkin spice latte and they’ve already cracked open the Quality Street and made a batch of mince pies. They’ll have a short break for Halloween - they’re crazy about that too - but once the fake blood has been delegated to the loft, there’s really no holding back. As far as they're concerned, November is Christmas Eve - but lucky for them, London’s on the same wavelength. Here are five activities to get you excited in November (even if you need the encouragement).
1. Make your own advent calendar
Head down to Oxford Street’s John Lewis for a three-hour craft session with The Makery. For £40, it’s slightly more expensive than the 'Frozen' calendar you’ve been eyeing in Poundland, but at least you can keep refilling when you fancy stealing a choccie 15 days early. There's only a few places left too, so get booking.
2. Go for a festive afternoon tea
Afternoon tea is a treat anytime of year, but what better way to welcome Christmas than (elegantly) stuffing our faces with minced pies and mini yule logs? All washed down with mulled wine or champagne, if you’re feeling fancy.
3. Go to the theatre
Skip the cinema this month, because there are loads of Christmas shows starting in November. 'Jack and the Beanstalk' runs from November 21 at Hackney Empire or for something more festive, 'The Snowman' starts on November 25 at the Peacock Theatre in Holborn.
4. Visit 400 Years of Christmas Past
For history buffs (or those of us who live for stuff like Downton Abbey) the Geffrye Museum in Shoreditch is holding its annual Christmas Past exhibition once again. Each room will be transformed with festive traditions from different periods – and it’s free entry.
5. Visit Taste of London: The Festive Edition
Being excited about Christmas also means being excited about how much food we can scoff in one day (or one month). From November 19-22, top chefs such as Monica Galetti will be at Tobacco Dock for Taste of London’s Christmas instalment. There will be live demonstrations, festive masterclasses and copious amounts of cheese, wine and chocolate to sample.
Still too soon? Find out what else is happening in London in November.