Guide To The Best Events And Experiences In November In London

November in London is a month packed with experiences that deliver on both culture and celebration, making it one of the best times to explore the city. The air is crisp, the festive season is just starting, and there’s an endless array of events to attend. From classic bonfire night gatherings to vibrant Christmas light displays across iconic spots like Oxford Street and Covent Garden, every corner of London lights up with tradition and creativity. There’s also plenty for those seeking culture: November’s lineup includes a fresh wave of exhibitions at the Saatchi Gallery, including As We Rise , a stunning photography showcase from the Black Atlantic, and retrospectives for Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Raphael that remind us why London remains one of the world’s top cultural destinations. For those craving something interactive and lively, London’s theater and concert scene has plenty on offer. Theater lovers can catch timeless productions like Lord of the Dance and seasonal family favorites such as The Snowman , while music fans will find an impressive lineup of gigs spanning genres and generations. With artists from Ice Spice to Nick Cave gracing the stage, November is the perfect time to discover fresh talent or revisit legendary acts. Meanwhile, cozy up with mulled wine at the many winter markets or take to the ice at Somerset House. Whatever you’re into, there’s something here to keep you entertained through those longer nights and cooler days. Unmissable Events Bonfire Night 5th Nov Various locations Celebrate Guy Fawkes Night with fireworks lighting up London’s skyline. Alexandra Palace is a popular viewing spot, but for a cosier experience, head to Battersea Park or Wimbledon Park, which offer fantastic views in a slightly more relaxed setting. The Lord Mayor's Show 9th Nov, 11am Sets off from Mansion House This grand parade, dating back 800 years, celebrates the new Lord Mayor of London. With floats, marching bands, and fireworks, it’s a unique blend of history and pageantry that concludes with a spectacular riverside firework display. Ideal Home Show Christmas 2024 27th Nov - 1st Dec Olympia Gear up for the holiday season with this festive event showcasing seasonal décor, gifts, and food. A one-stop shop for Christmas inspiration, it’s the perfect spot for early holiday shopping. Cake and Bake Show London 27th Nov - 1st Dec Olympia A treat for baking enthusiasts, this show offers celebrity demos, workshops, and a chance to sample decadent bakes. It’s ideal for anyone looking to perfect their holiday desserts. Penguin Parade Sculpture Trail From 14th Nov Fleet Street Quarter A family-friendly outdoor art trail featuring adorable penguin sculptures placed around London. Each piece is designed by artists, making it a fun way to explore the city while supporting wildlife conservation efforts. Christmas Sandwich Festival 15-17th Nov Covent Garden A unique festival devoted to the Christmas sandwich, showcasing inventive takes on this holiday favourite. Sample a variety of seasonal creations from top vendors across London. London Jazz Fest 15-24th Nov Southbank Centre This renowned festival draws jazz lovers from around the world, featuring performances from established and emerging artists across London’s jazz clubs and venues. A highlight for any music aficionado. Winter Wonderland Opens 21th Nov Hyde Park Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland transforms into a festive paradise with rides, an ice rink, holiday markets, and warming food stalls. It’s a beloved holiday event for locals and visitors alike. Thanksgiving 28th Nov Several restaurants across London offer Thanksgiving menus, catering to Americans abroad and locals looking to enjoy a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. St Andrew's Day 30th Nov Celebrate Scotland’s patron saint with events across the city, including Scottish music, dance, and special menus. A great day for anyone with Scottish heritage or simply a love of Scottish culture. Christmas In London See The Christmas Lights Turn On Around The City In London, the Christmas light switch-on is a beloved annual tradition that transforms the city’s iconic streets into a winter wonderland. From the elegant displays of Regent Street and Oxford Street to the creative installations of Covent Garden, the city radiates holiday spirit. Thousands gather to witness the lights come alive, accompanied by live performances, caroling, and seasonal treats. Bond Street is known for its luxury-inspired displays, while Carnaby Street often surprises with playful, themed decorations. The event kicks off the festive season in the capital, lighting up London with a unique blend of tradition, creativity, and cheer that reflects the city's dynamic spirit. Oxford Street – November 5 Regent Street – November 7 Covent Garden – November 12 Soho Kids Christmas Lights – November 12 Old Spitalfields Market – November 13 Marylebone Village Christmas Lights – November 13 Ice Skating Hot Spots London’s seasonal ice rinks open for winter, with top spots like Somerset House offering enchanting backdrops to glide across the ice. Each rink brings a mix of festive vibes and city charm. Our favourite spots: Somerset House Canary Wharf Alexandra Palace Battersea Power Station Visit Kew Gardens The magical “Christmas at Kew” light trail returns, guiding visitors through beautifully lit paths, interactive installations, and a world of festive wonder nestled in one of London’s finest gardens. London’s Christmas Markets Explore Christmas markets across the city, grab a hot chocolate and try some authentic Christmas food from around the globe. Here are our top favourites: South Bank Centre Winter Market Covent Garden Christmas markets Leicester Square Christmas market Trafalgar Square Christmas market Spitalfields Christmas markets Greenwich Christmas market Christmas-themed Afternoon Tea Indulge in a special holiday-themed afternoon tea at iconic locations, with menus featuring Christmas-inspired pastries, sandwiches, and warm teas that make for a cosy seasonal treat. Exhibitions Koestler Arts: No Comment 1st - 15th November Southbank Centre Held at the Southbank Centre, this exhibition presents art from prisoners, aiming to humanize and share the voices of those behind bars through powerful visual narratives. The Black Burlesque Festival 1st-2nd Nov A vibrant celebration of Black burlesque culture, this festival spotlights a diverse line-up of performers and workshops. It’s a unique opportunity to appreciate burlesque’s art and history within the Black community. As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic 5th Nov - 20th Jan, 25 Saatchi Gallery This exhibition highlights the diaspora’s rich cultural heritage through stunning photography, focusing on shared experiences and resilience across the Atlantic world. Anastasia Samoylova: Adaptation 5th Nov - 20th Jan, 25 Saatchi Gallery Explore the dynamic relationship between nature and urban environments in Samoylova’s work. Her vibrant photography captures the complexities of environmental adaptation in cities. Picasso: printmaker 7th Nov - 30th March, 25 British Museum Dive into the printmaking art of Pablo Picasso in this retrospective, showcasing his technical innovation and the diverse themes he explored through prints, from love to politics. Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael: Florence c 1504 9th Nov - 16th Feb, 25 Royal Academy of Arts This historic exhibition brings together works by these three Renaissance masters, revealing the transformative influence of Florence in shaping their artistry and legacy. Vogue Exhibition: Inventing the Runway From 13th Nov Lightroom, King’s Cross Celebrate the evolution of fashion in this exhibition, which tracks how iconic runway moments have influenced style, culture, and self-expression over decades. Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize 2024 14th Nov - 16th Feb, 25 National Portrait Gallery The National Portrait Gallery hosts this renowned prize exhibition, showcasing extraordinary portrait photography that captures a range of contemporary social themes. The 80s: Photographing Britain 21st Nov - 5th May, 25 Tate Britain Explore Britain’s transformative decade through evocative photography that delves into the social, political, and cultural landscape of the 1980s. Michelangelo Pistoletto Until 15th Nov Robilant+Voena Experience the work of Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto, whose installations challenge traditional perspectives and reflect on modern societal themes. Unreal City: Abstract Painting in London Ends 17th Nov Saatchi Gallery A celebration of London’s vibrant abstract art scene, this exhibition brings together works from notable contemporary artists, examining the city’s influence on abstract expression. Christian Furr: Fish & Cheese Ends 17th Nov Bartha_Contemporary This quirky exhibition by Christian Furr mixes surrealism and humour, exploring themes of consumption, nature, and society in unexpected ways. Theatre Lord Of The Dance 1st - 3rd Nov New Wimbledon Theatre Michael Flatley’s mesmerizing Irish dance production returns, combining energetic choreography with Celtic rhythms. This crowd-pleaser celebrates 25 years of tradition, thrilling both long-time fans and new audiences alike. Wolves on Road 9th Nov - 21st Dec Bush Theatre This intense drama examines the life of a man seeking redemption and finding himself caught between two worlds. The intimate setting at Bush Theatre enhances the powerful storytelling. The Unseen 15th Nov - 14th Dec Riverside Studios Set in a dystopian world, this thought-provoking play takes audiences on a journey of self-discovery and survival. A must-see for fans of speculative fiction and suspense. The Happiest Man on Earth 20th Nov - 14th Dec Southwark Playhouse Inspired by the memoir of Holocaust survivor Eddie Jaku, this play brings a powerful story of resilience and hope. It’s both an emotional tribute and a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Expendable 21st Nov - 21st Dec Royal Court This dark comedy explores corporate culture and morality, shedding light on the value of loyalty in the modern workplace. Clever and poignant, it’s perfect for anyone who appreciates satirical humour. The Snowman 23rd Nov - 4th Jan, 25 Peacock Theatre A beloved adaptation of Raymond Briggs' classic tale, "The Snowman" brings holiday magic to life on stage. Ideal for families, it features memorable music and whimsical visuals that captivate young audiences. Gigs and Concerts Charli XCX (November 28) – The O2 Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds (November 8-9) – The O2 Ice Spice (November 4) – O2 Academy Brixton Bob Dylan (November 12-14) – Royal Albert Hall The Libertines (October 30 – November 1) – Roundhouse Laura Marling (October 29-30 & November 1-2) – Hackney Church UB40 & Soul II Soul (November 1) – OVO Arena, Wembley Glass Animals and The Big Moon (November 7) – The O2 Rizzle Kicks (November 8) – KOKO Ludovico Einaudi (November 11-12) – London Palladium The Marías (November 11) – Roundhouse Cigarettes After Sex (November 12-13) – The O2 Amyl and The Sniffers (November 13-15) – Roundhouse Jimmy Eat World (November 15) – Alexandra Palace Nas (November 15-16) – Royal Albert Hall Rachel Chinouriri (November 16) – O2 Forum Kentish Town The Corrs & Natalie Imbruglia (November 20) – The O2 Khruangbin (November 20 – 22) – Eventim Apollo Julien Baker (November 17-21) – EartH Beabadoobee (November 21) – Alexandra Palace Fontaines D.C. (November 22-23) – Alexandra Palace The Dare (November 20, 26, 27) – Heaven Royel Otis (November 27) – Troxy KOKOROKO (November 27) – O2 Academy Brixton IDLES (November 29 & 30) – Alexandra Palace & Alexandra Palace Park

This November, some of the most influential figures in music will come together to celebrate the power of art in mental health support. The event, an exclusive charity auction titled Unseen, will be hosted by Mental Aid, a new charity dedicated to aiding individuals affected by acute mental health challenges. Featuring personal and rare photographs by artists like Nick Cave, members of Arctic Monkeys, Blondie, and many more, this event promises an unparalleled glimpse into the private worlds of legendary musicians. Thunderbird at CBG by Chris Stein Unseen will debut at the renowned Iconic Images Gallery on November 28. Known as the UK’s premier space for music photography, Iconic Images Gallery boasts an archive of rare images of everyone from David Bowie to Audrey Hepburn, making it a historical and vibrant backdrop for this unique charity initiative. Curated in part by acclaimed photographer Tony McGee, the collection spans intimate portraits of bandmates, reflective landscapes, and candid snapshots capturing quiet moments on tour. Art and music enthusiasts alike will be able to place bids on original prints, many of which have never been available to the public. Proceeds will go entirely to Mental Aid’s ongoing programs, which aim to bridge the gap between those struggling with mental health issues and the rest of society by offering work experience, volunteer opportunities, and support. Waiting by Neil Tennant, Petshop Boys The foundation of Mental Aid is a personal and heartfelt initiative led by two father-and-son duos, including Tony McGee, who has photographed legends such as David Bowie and Kate Moss. Inspired by a photograph Bowie himself took of McGee during a 1984 shoot, McGee sees Unseen as more than an exhibit; it’s a testament to creativity as a healing process. "Every artist has a story to tell, and a photograph is often the best way to tell it," says McGee. “This initiative is about encouraging creativity as a form of healing and raising awareness around mental illness.” Alongside McGee and his son Max, the charity was co-founded by Michael Goodall and his son Joe, both of whom bring years of experience and a shared dedication to supporting individuals affected by mental illness. Mental Aid’s purpose is not only to empower individuals through creativity but also to offer practical support, bridging the gap for those often overlooked due to mental health stigmas. Untitled by Matt Helders In addition to Nick Cave, the exhibition will feature works by icons such as Mick Fleetwood, Neil Tennant of the Pet Shop Boys, Noel Gallagher, and Joan Armatrading. Attendees can expect to see an eclectic mix of visual perspectives, from a snapshot of Mick Jagger during a quiet moment to serene landscapes taken during early morning hours. Every image tells its own story, offering an intimate view into the lives of these artists and the solace they find in capturing moments through photography. While the event is private, the exhibition will be accessible for public bidding online starting November 28. In doing so, Mental Aid extends the opportunity for everyone to own a piece of music history while supporting a cause that transforms lives. For collectors, fans, and supporters of mental health, Unseen is an event that underscores the connection between artistic expression and emotional well-being, blending the power of imagery with the passion for change.

The holiday countdown has never looked this exciting, or, frankly, this eclectic. This season, brands from fashion to fine foods are redefining the advent calendar with wildly original offerings. From the nostalgic charm of a LEGO Star Wars countdown to the allure of artisanal cheeses by Paxton & Whitfield, 2024’s advent calendars are designed to elevate your daily ritual in fresh, thoughtful ways. These advents aren't just playful novelties; they’re well-curated experiences. With a new enamel charm each day from Meri Meri, the daily surprise of Grind’s artisan coffee, or the vibrant flavours of Fly By Jing’s Winter in Sichuan collection, these calendars do more than help pass the days—they make each morning feel a bit like its own holiday. For the adventurer, the foodie, the caffeine aficionado, or the jewellery lover, this season’s line-up has something decadent and delightfully unexpected for everyone. LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar Celebrating 25 years of iconic LEGO Star Wars creations, this calendar takes fans on a nostalgic journey. Each day reveals mini-builds of famous vehicles like the Millennium Falcon, plus exclusive minifigures like festive Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker. Perfect for kids or anyone who’s been with LEGO Star Wars since the beginning, this is a standout collectible for the season. Pokémon Trading Card Advent Calendar Daily surprises await with the 2024 Pokémon Trading Card Advent Calendar, a treat for fans of the franchise. Each day brings a new item, from booster packs to foil cards and stickers, with the occasional exclusive seasonal twist. This advent calendar is made for those who want a bit of Pokémon magic each day. Enamel Charm Necklace Advent Calendar by Meri Meri For a whimsical, wearable countdown, Meri Meri’s enamel charm advent calendar hides a mini treasure in each of its 24 trays. Tucked in a gingham suitcase, these enamel charms, tassels, and the necklace chain provide plenty of variety, making this calendar a delight for accessory lovers. Brewdog Craft Beer Advent Calendar Perfect for craft beer enthusiasts, Brewdog’s 2024 Advent Calendar delivers a new can every day, with options spanning hoppy IPAs, bold stouts, and more. It even includes a custom glass for the complete tasting experience, helping beer lovers sip their way through the season. Biscuiteers Advent Tin The Biscuiteers Advent Tin combines charm with tradition. This luxurious tin includes beautifully hand-iced biscuits crafted in collaboration with Emma Bridgewater. Paired with a limited edition fabric advent calendar, it offers 24 days of delicious, intricately designed cookies that make for a festive treat with a touch of whimsy. Paxton & Whitfield Artisan Cheese Advent Calendar Cheese lovers will find no better way to countdown than Paxton & Whitfield’s Artisan Cheese Advent Calendar. With three fresh deliveries throughout December, this calendar provides an assortment of hand-cut cheeses. Each delivery is packed sustainably, ensuring freshness, and designed to be savored all season long. The Cartwright & Butler Advent Calendar Cartwright & Butler’s calendar offers 24 days of gourmet indulgences, from sweet treats to savoury delights. Each drawer of this elegant calendar holds a classic Cartwright & Butler favourite, ideal for those looking to enjoy high-quality snacks and nibbles throughout December. Grind Advent Calendar For those who need their morning coffee ritual, the Grind Advent Calendar offers 25 days of compostable pods compatible with Nespresso machines. Each pod is filled with unique blends, from extra-dark roasts to festive flavours, giving coffee aficionados a new taste adventure every day. Papier 24 Doors of Desk Delights Advent Calendar Papier’s cult-status advent calendar returns for the stationery enthusiast. Packed with best-selling desk items and surprises, it’s a dream for those who love premium paper goods. Each box is designed to be kept and reused, adding a bit of flair and functionality to your desk setup. Fly By Jing Winter in Sichuan Advent Calendar A taste adventure, Fly By Jing’s Winter in Sichuan calendar brings 12 days of bold flavours straight from Chengdu. Featuring a mix of exclusive new sauces, spices, and pantry staples, it’s designed for spice lovers and anyone who wants to heat up their holiday kitchen with a dash of Sichuan flair. The Book Lover's Advent Calendar For those who find comfort in cosy reading nooks, The Book Lover's Advent Calendar offers 25 days of bookish delights. Each day, bibliophiles can unwrap a new item that celebrates the literary life, from bookmarks to book-themed trinkets—perfect for the season’s quieter moments. Onyx Coffee Lab Advent Calendar Specialty coffee aficionados can count down to Christmas with Onyx Coffee Lab’s 7th annual calendar, featuring 24 coffees sourced from around the globe. Each day promises a unique roast, taking coffee lovers on a flavourful journey while highlighting the origins and producers of each blend. Missoma Advent Calendar Missoma’s advent calendar is back with 12 pieces of stunning gold jewellery. This keepsake box is both chic and sustainable, designed with a mirror and FSC-certified materials. Jewellery lovers will find each day’s reveal a luxurious addition to their collection, with pieces valued well above the calendar’s price. Drinks by the Dram Gin Advent Calendar Gin aficionados will love Drinks by the Dram’s Gin Advent Calendar, a collection of 25 wax-sealed mini gin bottles from celebrated distilleries. Each taster offers a unique flavour profile, making this the perfect gift.

It might feel like we're jumping the gun, but let's be real—fragrance advent calendars are one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season. This year, more brands than ever are getting in on the action, offering up calendars packed exclusively with perfumes, and I, for one, am absolutely here for it. I’ve always had a soft spot for the mini fragrance vials tucked into beauty advent calendars, so a whole calendar dedicated to perfumes? Yes, please. Fragrance advent calendars let you dive into the world of luxury and niche perfumes, giving you the chance to experiment with a range of scents without committing to full bottles. From tiny travel-size sprays that slip easily into your purse to full-sized surprises, they’re a more affordable—and much more fun—way to explore fragrance. And who wouldn’t love waking up to a new scent every day in the lead-up to the holidays? What makes them even more exciting is the variety they offer. Depending on which brand you go for, you’ll get a carefully curated selection that might include cult classics or even TikTok sensations. If you're lucky, you'll get a mix of perfumes, candles, and maybe even some scented body care. Diptyque, for example, doesn’t just stop at their signature eau de toilette—they throw in candles and luxurious body products, too. Meanwhile, retailers like Harvey Nichols are showcasing top-tier names like Byredo and Parfums de Marly. This year’s advent calendars are elevating the fragrance experience beyond just perfume. Now, if you’re wondering how we decided which ones made the cut for the best fragrance advent calendars of 2024, we’ve done the work for you. As beauty editors with an eye (and nose) for the best, we managed to get a sneak peek at some of the most anticipated releases. We’ve examined the value of each calendar, noting how many full-sized products are included, and whether they offer a mix of fragrance with makeup, skincare, and other treats. So whether you’re a perfume connoisseur or just looking for a new favourite, you’ll be well-prepared to grab one of the best fragrance advent calendars before they inevitably sell out. Harvey Nichols 12 Days Of Fragrance Penhaligons Baker’s Box of Delights Rituals Premium Advent Calendar The Fragrance Shop Advent Calendar Jo Loves Advent Calendar Aqua di Parma Holiday 2024 The Harrods Fragrance Advent Calendar Diptyque Advent Calendar 2024 Jo Malone London Advent Calendar 2024

It’s hard to believe that we just marked the 2 year anniversary since the late Queen’s death back in 2020, and to commemorate this passage of time we are presented with a collector’s edition treasury of quotations by the late Queen titled ‘’Enduring Wisdom: Words of Hope and Inspiration by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’’ . The book includes official portraits of the Queen from each decade of her reign, and the quotations highlight the values that were close to her heart - courage, empathy, forgiveness, hope, humility, love and respect. This anthology pays tribute to a world leader whose grace and wisdom will never die. Queen Elizabeth II was queen regnant of 32 sovereign states during her lifetime and remained the monarch of 15 realms by the time of her death. She was also Patron of more than 600 organisations and charities. Loved and admired throughout her long lifetime, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II touched the lives of millions - not least through the speeches that she broadcast to the world each Christmas during her seventy years on the throne. With over 80 inspiring quotations selected from the late Queen’s beloved Christmas speeches, and interspersed with stunning and memorable portraits, Enduring Wisdom gives intimate insight into the values that Her Majesty held most dear to her heart, including courage, love, strength, and hope for tomorrow, which are all most pertinent in these turbulent times. You can find a hardcover copy on Amazon.co.uk

While most of us are busy figuring out our Halloween costumes or stressing over Christmas shopping, the fashion world has moved on to its favorite holiday: the Met Gala. Yes, it feels like the last one just happened, but the Met Gala runs on its own calendar—one that’s all about outdoing the year before, with bigger themes and more outrageous outfits. And now, the 2025 theme is official: Superfine: Tailoring Black Style . This year’s theme was announced on October 9, 2024, and it’s all about celebrating Black dandyism—specifically, how Black men’s fashion has shaped style from the 18th century to now. The exhibition takes its cues from Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity . Basically, it’s a deep dive into how Black men throughout history have mixed European tailoring with African aesthetics to create something totally unique and deeply influential. The Costume Institute’s spring 2025 exhibition will include garments, paintings, photographs, and more, all tracing the evolution of Black dandyism. And according to Andrew Bolton, the Costume Institute’s curator in charge, this show is a major step toward diversifying the museum’s fashion exhibits. “The Met is committed to making fashion more accessible and inclusive,” Bolton said, noting that Black designers are at the forefront of redefining how we think about identity in fashion. As for who’s co-chairing the gala this year? Pharrell Williams is back—this time alongside Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, and A$AP Rocky, with Anna Wintour holding her usual spot. Oh, and LeBron James will be joining as an honorary co-chair. No big deal, just one of the world’s most famous athletes helping to steer fashion’s most important night. What should you expect on the red carpet? Tailoring will be huge. Think sharp suits, luxurious fabrics, and details that reference everything from Harlem Renaissance style to contemporary Black designers like Grace Wales Bonner and the late Virgil Abloh. If you’re already dreaming of who’ll wear what, imagine Janelle Monáe or Zendaya showing up in an androgynous tux with a modern twist—or maybe Pharrell pulling out something wild from the Louis Vuitton atelier. But beyond just looking great, the theme comes with a political edge. Black dandyism has always been about more than just clothes—it’s a statement about self-expression, resistance, and reclaiming dignity through style. So, don’t be surprised if we see looks that tap into that history and make a bigger point. The exhibition, which opens on May 10 and runs through October 26, 2025, will be the first men-focused show since Men in Skirts in 2003, and it’s already generating buzz for how it tackles race, gender, and fashion. With seven months to go before the big night, the clock is ticking—and everyone’s wondering just how next year’s stars will interpret Superfine: Tailoring Black Style on the world’s most exclusive red carpet.