The Southbank Centre Christmas Market

This popular German-style Christmas market returns to the Southbank for a fifth year. Between the London Eye and Waterloo Bridge you’ll find more than 60 traditional wooden chalets, selling everything from unusual Christmas gifts to warming Glühwein. Fairground rides, festive lights and seasonal music complete the magical atmosphere. 16 Nov-24 Dec

UK Chilli Stand Off 2012, Hackney

Fire up your tastebuds at this spicy festival, which sees eight top chefs competing to be crowned chilli champion. Participants include Gizzi Erskine, Tim Anderson and Tom Parker-Bowles, with Masterchef’s John Torode in the enviable position of judge. Visitors will be able to sample all eight chillis, alongside a range of drinks and even chocolate chilli ice cream. Tickets are £40, visit the event’s website to secure a place at one of two tasting sessions. 17 Nov

Light from the Middle East: New Photography, at the Victoria and Albert Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum presents a rare opportunity to view the best of contemporary Middle Eastern photography at this new exhibition. Thirty artists are represented, and their photographs not only highlight fascinating variations in technique and perspective, but also provide a timely insight into recent events. Entry is free. 13 Nov-7 Apr 

A Bigger Splash: Painting After Performance, at the Tate Modern

Explore the relationship between painting and performance at this reverse-engineered exhibition at the Tate Modern. Featuring work by artists such as Jackson Pollock, David Hockney and Cindy Sherman, it contrasts painters who use theatrical techniques with those who use the human body itself as a canvas. Tickets are £10 for adults. 14 Nov-1 Apr

Skate at Somerset House Ice Rink

This seasonal ice rink, set against the exquisite backdrop of Somerset House, just keeps getting better and better. Not only can adults and children learn to skate in dedicated classes, but budding ice dancers can also show off their moves at late night sessions, accompanied by music from top DJs. Adding to the glamour is the new pop-up shopping arcade, which allows you to buy British artisan gifts for your loved ones after a spin on the ice. 16 Nov-6 Jan

The Bar of Aero

Enter The Bar of Aero, a pop-up world of chocolate, bubbly fun at the Dray Walk Gallery, Truman Brewery. The fun includes a peppermint-scented playground, orange and green bubble waterfall and a movement reactive Aero hot chocolate dispenser. Entrance is free with prizes and free chocolate up for grabs. 16-18 Nov, 12-7pm

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