Christmas Past at the Geffrye Museum

Take a journey through England’s Christmas past at the Geffrye Museum, where the rooms have been decorated in a variety of authentic festive decorations from the past 400 years. Not only can you get a sense of what Christmas would have been like for families at key points in history, but you’ll also learn about the origins of holiday traditions such as kissing under the mistletoe and sending cards. The exhibition is accompanied by special talks and activities – see the website for full details. Until 6 Jan

Experience Cinema at The Round Chapel 

Head to the gorgeous Round Chapel in Hackney for a day of festive films courtesy of Experience Cinema. On Saturday, visitors can choose between an early screening of family favourite Elf, or a later showing of Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life. All screenings in the atmospheric building are accompanied by a fully licensed bar, and tickets start from £10 for adults or £8.50 for children. 15 Dec

The Christmas Bootlegger’s Ball by the Candlelight Club

Channel your inner flapper at this decadent club night, held in a secret location. The Christmas edition of these popular 1920s and 30s-themed events features a Charleston floor show, irresistable music from the Boomtown Swingalings and a tantalising menu of Prohibition-themed cocktails. Guests are normally immaculately attired, so it’s worth making an effort! Tickets are £25. 15 Dec

Designers Christmas Market at the Southbank Centre

Wrap up your Christmas shopping at this delightful market, which features 50 stalls selling unique items from UK craftspeople. Not only can you find interesting gifts, but there’s a range of fun activities for both adults and children. Design Christmas decorations, make your own Christmas cards or have a go on the unique lucky dip. 14-16 Dec

War of the Worlds – The New Generation

The O2 plays host to the spectacular update of H.G. Wells’ classic tale, which charts the terrifying Martian invasion of Earth. Using the large arena to full effect, the show combines innovative 3D technology, live theatre, orchestral music and mesmerising special effects to bring the story’s Victorian setting to life like never before. The star-studded production features Liam Neeson as the journalist George Herbert, and tickets start from £42.50.  15 Dec

Valentino: Master of Couture, Somerset House

Fans of Valentino’s exquisite dresses will be in seventh heaven, as this new exhibition displays more than 130 of his stunning pieces. Not only will visitors walk along a specially designed catwalk to view gowns worn by the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly, but they will also learn more about the Italian designer and the painstaking process involved in creating one of his masterpieces. Tickets are £12. 29 Nov-3 Mar

Roman Festival of Light Celebrations, Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre

Head to the Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre for a free family fun day in celebration of Saturnalia, the ancient Roman festival which honoured the god Saturn. Visitors will make their own Roman-style hats, lanterns and mosaics before handling a selection of real artefacts which evoke the carnival spirit of this ancient winter festival. 12pm-4pm, 2 Dec

Great Christmas Pudding Race, Covent Garden

For the 32nd year teams will compete in this frenetic charity race around Covent Garden, in which participants must safely carry Christmas Puddings over a tricky but entertaining obstacle course. As well as enjoying the spectacle, onlookers can watch live entertainment and special guest appearances, or browse the area’s unique shops. 11am, 1 Dec

Jason Mraz at The O2

American pop/folk singer Jason Mraz brings his world tour to London for just one night, treating audiences to renditions of hits such as “I’m Yours” as well as tracks from his new album “Love is a Four Letter Word”. Mraz will be supported by the multi-talented English musician Gregory Page. Tickets are £37.25. 1 Dec

The Courtaulds at Christmas, Eltham Palace

Inject a bit of 1930s glamour into your Christmas at Eltham Palace, where you can experience the thrill of setting up a grand house for the festive season. Costumed characters will be roaming the building, and you can also get involved by singing carols and learning about period Christmas decorations. Tickets are £9.60, which includes entry to the house and grounds. 11am-4pm, 2 Dec