Christmas Markets kick off. Pic: Heatheronhertravels
As we reach December and the holiday season quickly approaches, the EastLondonLines boroughs have events that are set to get residents into the Christmas spirit.
Check out some holiday music, taste some mulled cider, and strap on your ice skates to get yourself into that festive mood.
Lighting Up Hackney
Sunday December 1, 4:00pm
On Sunday, December 1, Hackney will switch on their official Christmas lights in the Town Hall Square.
The Hackney Empire choir, along with some of the cast of the Hackney Empire’s Puss in Boots, will be on hand to sing carols.
Local fashion designers, including Emma Cook and Piers Atkinson, have created exclusive Christmas trees that will be revealed throughout the day around the town centre.
Pig’s Ear Beer and Cider Festival
Tuesday December 3-Saturday December 7, 12pm-11pm
Local breweries from the borough and around the East End will be serving 230 Real Ales at the The Round Chapel on Powerscroft Road. There will also be food stalls and games on hand.
There is an age restriction of 18 and tickets are £4. Campaign for Real Ale members receive a £2 discount.
Catford Broadway Christmas Market
Sunday December 1, 10am-4pm
The monthly market, which takes place between the Regent’s Canal and London fields, gets a festive flavour this weekend. Along with the typical fair of handmade jewellery and accessories, gluten-free breads and cakes and natural candles, Christmas decorations and other local holiday specialities will be sold. There will also be live music and free gift workshops for children.
The day finishes with the Catford Christmas tree light switch on at 4:30pm.
Winter Winds
Lewisham Music Hub
Sunday December 1, 3pm-4:30pm
The Lewisham Concert Band, Lewisham Schools Concert and Lewisham Schools Brass Band will be at the Prendergast Hilly Fields College on Sunday, to perform a seasonally themed set.
Tickets are £5 (£3 concessions) and will be available at the door.
Canary Wharf Santa’s Grotto
Now until December 24th
On the south side of Canary Wharf at the Jubilee Place Mall, Tower Hamlets is setting up a Christmas Grotto complete with face painting, craft workshops, cookie and cupcake decorating, and magical mirrors in Jubilee Place.
Santa will also be in residence from 11am-5pm on December 7, 8, and from the 14-24. Pre-booking to see him is not required, but be warned, it’s best to arrive early to avoid disappointment.
A £2 charity donation is required.
Canary Wharf Ice Skating
Mon-Fri 10:30am-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-10pm
Canada Square Park has been transformed into a winter wonderland until mid January, around the London Ice Skating Rink in Canary Wharf. There is a Rinkside Boisdale on Ice Bar and viewing terrace for those who don’t want to test their skill on the ice. Brand new, high quality ice skates are also on offer this year.
Tickets are £13.50 for adults, £9 for children under 13, and £36.50 for families.
Festive Fun in the Town Centre
Saturday December 1, 11-5pm
Put on by the Croydon Business Improvement District, there will be plenty of holiday activity in Croydon’s North End. Performers including Christmas tree and toy soldier stilt walkers, Christmas fairy roller skaters, Whispering Christmas trees and reindeers and elves, will be on hand to get locals into the holiday spirit.
Local musicians will also be in the North End, bringing their own special magic to the town centre throughout the day.
