Carol singing, ice skating, mulled wine – all three at the same time if we can find them. Not to mention ‘it’s behind you’, and decking the halls with boughs of holly. Here’s our very personal list of events we can’t make it through the festive season without. And for special wow factor, stock up on sparkling jewellery, snugly cashmere, and a heart-shaped card holder to display all your invitations. Fill our motoring flask with Teapigs Tea, and you’re good to go.

TRADITIONAL MARKETS
You can almost smell the mulled wine wafting from some of our gingerbread-style Christmas markets. Cheltenham, Canterbury and Glasgow’s deliver plenty of atmosphere. There’s a comprehensive list at Christmas Markets. 
                        

CAROL SERVICE
Macmillan Cancer Support runs carol services up and down the country, many with celebrity readings and other treats. Swindon 4 December, Newcastle 14 December, London 8 and 17 December – for a full list, click here 
                                                                                              

WINTER WONDERLAND Lapland UK 
This is the real festive deal, with snow, elves, Father Christmas and a herd of reindeer. It’s located in a 320-acre forest in Kent and endorsed by the National Forestry Commission. And it’s a much more carbon-friendly and cheaper alternative to flying to Finland. 
                    

ICE MAGIC
There’s something exhilarating about skating in the crisp outdoors, and ice rinks are becoming an increasingly popular part of the festive season. Some of our favourites are at the Mall at Crib’s Causeway Bristol (where you’ll also find a Christmas market), Winchester Cathedral, and Hyde Park. Check out a full list at Enjoy England. 

STAR-STUDDED PANTO
Not sure how she’s going to accessorise her red cossie, but Pamela Anderson is starring in Aladdin for two weeks in the New Wimbledon Theatre. Paul O’Grady then takes over, and Brian Blessed and Ruby Wax also star.