Christmas markets, skating rinks, carol concerts – they are all well and good, but festive amusements are prone to getting a little repetitive. Traditions are grand but why not try something delightfully different this year? Here is BitchBuzz Culture's pick of festive events that are sure to be as refreshing as the smell of fresh pine needles or a Boxing Day stroll:
Tuck into festive afternoon tea!
The endless supply of mince pies and fruitcake can be a challenge for even the most ardent cake lover. Birmingham’s Hotel la Tour has launched a delightful Christmas High Tea menu that is sure to break the mincemeat monotony.
Served in the hotel’s plush piano bar, surrounded by sleek and stylish decorations the tea starts with seasonal finger sandwiches and bacon-wrapped mini chipolatas served with a mustard mayonnaise. Clotted cream scones are followed by a selection of delectable and dainty desserts including cranberry Eton mess, mandarin tart and a delicious chocolate yule cake. A selection of teas accompanies the meal and there is range of indulgent cocktails (yes, there’s egg nog) and champagne to choose from.
Christmas High Tea at Hotel la Tour, Albert Street Birmingham, B5 5JT. £15.95 per person, cocktails from £5.00, book online or call 0121 718 8000
Gaze up at a stylish Christmas Tree!
Fashion designer Mary Katrantzou has teamed up with the Design Museum, London to create their 2012 Christmas tree. The three meter high 2D tree will feature Katrantzou’s trademark patterns and be placed on the outer wall of the museum. Whilst checking out the tree, make sure to visit the Digital Crystal exhibition – this Swarovski design showcase is sure to add a little extra sparkle to your festive adventures!
Following on from collaborations with the likes of John Galliano and Alber Elbaz, Claridge’s 2012 Christmas tree has been created by fancy florist Kally Ellis. The magical tree is located in the grand art deco lobby; so make sure to sneak a peek if you happen to be passing by.
Mary Katrantzou’s Christmas tree will be on display at Design Museum, Shad Thames, London, SE1 2YD from Tuesday 4th December 2012-9th January 2013
Rock out with the Christmas zombies!
Indie Christmas stars, Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler, will be bringing their Zombie Christmas show to London’s Scala on Thursday 20th December. Expect all sorts of kooky and crazy Christmas fun as the duo play catchy festive tunes from their 2011 album This is Christmas. There’s sure to be some refreshingly weird and wonderful rock ‘n’ roll madness - watch the not-exactly-SFW video for their new single, ‘Zombie Christmas’ and you’ll get the idea...
Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler Present Zombie Christmas at Scala, 275 Pentonville Road, Kings Cross. Thursday 20th December, 7pm. Tickets £18.15, book online.
Countdown to Christmas with Barbara Nice!
Fans of Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights will recognise Janice Connolly AKA Barbara Nice from her role as Holy Mary in the Channel 4 sitcom. Barbara is a leopard print-loving housewife superstar who has received rave reviews for her Edinburgh stand-up performances.
Birmingham’s Old Joint Stock Theatre will be home to Mrs Nice 18th-22nd December as she helps audiences to prepare for the impeding chaos with her Countdown to Christmas show. Expect bags of warm humour and silliness as she takes to the stage on a mission to help audiences rediscover their festive cheer and party the night away!
Barbara Nice’s Countdown to Christmas! at The Old Joint Stock Theatre, 4 Temple Row West, Birmingham, B2 5NY. 18th-22nd December, 8pm. Tickets £12.00, book online or call 0845 6801926.
Eat yummy food in a big top!
Roll up! Roll up! The foodie circus is heading to Millenium Square in Bristol! The original 1920s Love Food ‘Spiegeltent’ will be home to a gourmet festive food market, a demonstration theatre, street food vendors and activities for kids. Munch away on chocolatey churros whilst making gingerbread tree decorations or shop for gifts for food loving friends and family – the Spiegeltent offers the best of the south west’s seasonal fayre all under one canvas. The tent itself is set to be equally spectacular – with stained glass windows and ornate mirrors guaranteed to transport you back to the by-gone era of olde worlde Christmas charm.
Love Food Present Christmas at the Spiegeltent at Millennium Square, Bristol. Admission £2.50 for adult, free for children. Book tickets online.