ALL THE JINGLE LADIES

Edgbaston Village is switching on its Christmas lights, November 14, which means you have permission to stop describing your lunchtime wine as “a bit much” and start calling it “festive”.

Greenfield Crescent hosts the Saturday celebrations, with the Artisan Market getting things moving from 10am. Independent traders will be selling their wares until 6pm, giving you eight hours to buy presents for other people and somehow return home with exclusively things for yourself.

Entertainment begins at 3pm, featuring Elmhurst Ballet School, festive choral music and a Frozen-inspired show. Parents, consider this your advance warning that “Let It Go” may be returning to heavy rotation. Santa and Mrs Claus will also be in attendance, alongside a Beauty and the Beast appearance courtesy of Birmingham’s Old Rep Theatre and Polka Dot Pantomimes. A strong turnout from the fictional community.

The lights themselves go on at 6pm, with the obligatory countdown offering a rare opportunity to shout numbers in the street without alarming anyone.

Make an afternoon of it: browse the market, watch the performances, then seek refreshments at Chapter, The Highfield, The Physician or Loki Wines. Christmas shopping is thirsty work. Even when you’ve only bought yourself something.

Especially then, actually. More