November is officially here, and whether you're on the countdown to Christmas or are in absolute denial that 2023 is just around the corner, there's plenty to do to keep you distracted. Whether you like fireworks, car shows or world-class photography—London has it all (no surprises there) - and it doesn't have to cost you a penny! Bonfire Night Weekend | Nov 4nd - 6th Now, there are plenty of grand displays and local spots to check out, depending on the vibe you want for your Guy Fawkes Night this year. We have all your best options, so be sure to have a look for all things free, family-orientated and laser-based. The Lord Mayor's Show This is an ancient tradition filled with British pomp and grandeur, which has taken place every year since 1215. Created to celebrate the city's right to elect its own mayor, granted by King John, the new Lord Mayor must travel from London City to Westminster to swear his or her allegiance. Today, this means a huge 3 mile procession with flotillas, marching bands and performers galore, as well as the mayor in an ornate 250-year-old coach. BrewCon Brew Con London is the UK’s first home brew conference and expo. This year’s event moves from Oval Space in east London to the bigger Beavertown Brewery in Tottenham Hale for two days. There’s something to sample for every level of home brewing, from talks, live demos, amateur brewing workshops, and naturally, plenty of tastings. There are competitions and prizes on the line if you're especially confident in your own concoction. Christmas markets, skating rinks and winter wonderlands Get your big coat and head out to sip on mulled wine at the top Christmas fairs in London, with markets, plenty of shows and performances and illuminations too. Oxford Street Christmas Lights Part of their big Christmas shopping night, the switch-on will no doubt feature a big household name and there will be plenty of festive treats and temptations to be had. South Bank Winter Festival A whole range of events including a food-based Christmas market and plenty of entertainment, this is a seasonal staple. There's plenty for after-work drinks and entertainment as well as family fun, all with a creative seasonal twist. Ice Skating at Somerset House Get your skates on and roll up your sleeves—Somerset House is back with a rink, blades and even DJ nights too. There are chances to snaffle cheaper tickets, but be prepared to pay a little more for event nights like Skate Lates. You can also spend your hard-saved coins on some Fortnum & Mason treats like a chocolate fondue, or cheese and wine platters for two. Enchanted Woodland at Syon Park An extremely popular winter event, the illuminations at Syon Park are truly magical. Held on the last three weekends of November, the garden is filled with trails and interactive displays celebrating the amazing diversity of the garden's trees. The popularity means there are specific entry times and tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book soon. Scandinavian Christmas Market Start your festive preparations with a touch of the old Scandinavian 'hygge' by getting warm and cosy with some tasty treats while you browse the stalls. This Christmas market has a great selection of independent retailers with handmade textiles, calendars and greetings cards and even vintage clothes. Christmas at Kew Another increasingly popular garden illumination, the grounds of Kew become a world of festive illuminations and delights. Following a carefully designed trail, visitors can see carefully designed installations, arches and displays. This year will have a new Moonlit Woods area and a Laser Garden as well as the sculptural fire garden and flotilla of glowing boats glimmering on the lake's surface. There will be plenty of mulled wines and spiced ciders for the big ones as well as old-fashioned fairground rides for the little ones. Sliders Curling Roof East in Stratford has reopened the city's only rooftop curling lanes for another year of revelry. The lanes will be available until Dec 22nd—just be sure to book your place ahead of time. There's a lot to see at Roof East, so be sure to have a mosey around. And while you're in the area, check our our guide to Stratford. Christmas by the River One of the most pictureqsue markets in the city, this parade of festive stalls offers views of the bridge and tower while you shop. Warm up with mulled wine and spiced hot chocolate and wander through the handmade gifts and foodie treats. Ongoing events