London is absolutely buzzing this week, so if you’re wondering what to do, you’re in exactly the right city.

If you fancy some midweek culture tonight, Brunel University’s Howell Theatre is hosting the Brunel Arts Winter Showcase, a festive evening of student music, dance, and drama running from 7:30 to 9:00pm. According to Brunel University, it’s a one-night-only celebration of emerging talent, perfect if you want something creative without heading into the West End crush. Over by the Strand at lunchtime, the Choir of King’s College London is offering an Anglican Sung Eucharist at 1:10pm, where listeners can take a quiet break from the rush and soak in choral music in the heart of the city.

Looking ahead to the big festive openings, English National Ballet’s brand-new production of The Nutcracker arrives at the London Coliseum from Thursday 11 December. London Theatreland reports that this 2025 version features fresh choreography from artistic director Aaron S. Watkin and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith, bringing Clara’s magical Christmas Eve adventure to life with all the snowflakes, sweets, and Tchaikovsky you could wish for.

As the weekend rolls in, London turns the sparkle up a notch. Secret London highlights Winter Funland, Europe’s biggest indoor Christmas funfair, opening at Olympia London on Saturday. Think a huge ice rink, circus shows, funfair rides, festive street food, and an all-inclusive ticket that lets you ride and glide to your heart’s content without worrying about the weather. Over on the South Bank, Secret London also notes La Fontana di Peroni pouring complimentary Peroni Nastro Azzurro at South Bank Observation Point between 12pm and 8pm through the weekend – ideal for a riverside stroll with a festive drink.

For a cosy, candlelit night out on Saturday, London Theatreland points to Candlelight: Christmas Movie Soundtracks at Central Hall Westminster on 13 December. A live ensemble plays music from favourites like Home Alone and Love Actually surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles, making it a perfect date night or friends’ outing.

Story lovers should head to Rich Mix in Shoreditch, where The Moth’s Family Matters StorySLAM invites anyone to share a five‑minute true story on the theme of family. According to The Moth, doors open at 7:15pm, stories start at 8pm, and you can either throw your name in the hat or just listen as strangers bare their souls.

Whatever you choose, London’s serving up culture, sparkle, and plenty of festive magic all week long.

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