London is in full festive swing, so let’s dive into what listeners can actually do in the city today and over the coming days.

If you want big, sparkly, pop-star energy, head to The O2 in North Greenwich for Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball with Barclaycard. According to The O2’s own listings, tonight’s line-up includes Kylie Minogue, Louis Tomlinson, Jessie J, Tinie Tempah, Alex Warren, Cat Burns, MK, Jax Jones and more, all on one bill, with doors opening late afternoon and the whole arena turned into what Capital calls the UK’s biggest Christmas party. Expect confetti, pyros, and every chart hit you’ve had stuck in your head this year.

For something cosier and cinematic, the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith is hosting The Holiday in Concert this evening. Listings site Halibuts explains that the romcom plays on the big screen while a live orchestra performs Hans Zimmer’s score, with the show starting at 6.30pm. It’s an ideal date night or friends’ outing if listeners want that warm, festive-movie feeling but with the extra thrill of a live orchestra.

If classical Christmas is more your style, keep an eye on Cadogan Hall in Chelsea. Cadogan Hall’s own programme highlights the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s Christmas Cracker concerts this weekend, a mix of seasonal favourites like Let It Snow, Winter Wonderland and Sleigh Ride, plus big-band style vocals, all in an intimate, wood-panelled hall just off Sloane Square. It’s family‑friendly and built for that “proper London Christmas” atmosphere.

Theatre lovers are spoiled this week. London Theatreland and West End Theatre both report that the West End’s Christmas season is in full flow, with shows like The Lion King, Wicked, Matilda the Musical and Les Misérables all running, plus brand‑new festive offerings. London Theatreland notes that Paddington The Musical is bringing the marmalade-loving bear to the Savoy Theatre, perfect for families who want something charming, funny and very British.

For listeners after something a bit more low-key and local, Londonist’s guide to this weekend points to pop-up Christmas markets and free festive events across town, from vintage fairs at Dulwich Picture Gallery to seasonal happenings at museums and galleries. It’s worth checking their latest listings to pick a neighbourhood and just wander.

Wherever you end up, wrap up warm, leave a little extra time for tubes and buses, and let London’s lights and music do the rest.

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