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
