While the rest of the office indulges their OCD (obsessive Christmas disorder) tendencies; baking untold quantities of gingerbread men and searching Spotify for the best crimbo compilation, I’m finding it increasingly difficult to shake my grinch like slump. So assuming that I may not be alone in my anti-festive mind state, I thought that a little bit of research into some of the best festive outings in and around the capital might be just the thing to resurrect my/our lack lustre Christmas spirit…
Visit the Ballet
Ok so strictly speaking the ballet is not technically a festive event but lets ease ourselves in gently! As of Saturday 6th December The Royal Ballet is staging a magical version of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, at the famed Royal Opera House in the heart of Covent Garden. Already being praised for its stunning theatrical effects, Christopher Wheeldon’s interpretation of the Lewis Caroll classic is the perfect way to kickstart the Christmas period with the whole family.
Shop in Style
Forget fighting your way through the masses at Oxford Street this December and head out to Oxfordshire – Bicester Village to be precise – where you’ll find a chic designer outlet offering everything and more in a quaint festive setting. Amble through the cobbled streets at your own leisure whilst indulging in some of the best designer discounts around. Open until 8 or 9pm (except Sundays) in the run up to Christmas, Bicester will turn the dreaded crimbo shop into a delightful day out. And yes, before you ask, it would be rude not to treat yourself while your there!
Good Wreath!
Sometimes the best way to get those festive juices flowing is to get creative and what better way to get amongst it than by making your very own wreath? Bespoke floral design company, Blue Sky Flowers, is offering bespoke wreath making workshops at the New Covent Garden Flower Market up until the 10th December so get in there quick to avoid disappointment. As well as step-by-step demonstrations you’ll also be treated to refreshments and morning pastries. Now where do I sign up!
Nordic Yulefest
From easing ourselves in gently to all out Christmas madness, the Nordic Yulefest in Shoreditch is for all you hardcore crimbo lovers out there. The renovated studio is quite simply the festive venue to end all festive venues. In all its enchanting snowy glory, the Nordic Winter Wonderland is the perfect place for a pre Christmas lunch/dinner. Prices start from £55 a head, which includes a Christmas cocktail, a four course dinner, games, dancing and a good old dose of ‘unbridled tomfoolery’ thrown in for free. How could you resist!
By Jenna Jones