With Christmas tree festivals, late-night shopping and candlelit carol services in spectacular surroundings both ancient and modern to enjoy, the excitement and anticipation continues to grow.

Traditional family fun can be had at the pantomime with Harrogate Theatre’s annual production jam-packed with jokes and of course, there will be all the usual audience participation – ‘oh yes there will!’. In addition, there will be o host of community theatre panto productions taking place across our towns.

There are festivals of music and lights in such beautiful locations as Fountains Abbey and RHS Garden Harlow Carr.

For the more creative and dextrous there are a number of ‘hands-on’ arts and crafts workshops where you can make your own crackers, decorations, gifts and wreaths.