It's just two months until Christmas and many of us are already busy planning the big day.
And there's plenty of events on around Solihull from light switch ons to markets and shows.
As the festive season is all about joy, take the stress out of some of the organising with a look at our handy guide to the fun attractions taking place across Solihull up to and around, December 25.
Solihull Town Centre
Mell Square
For the fifth year running, there won't be an official Christmas lights switch-on in Solihull town centre but the lights WILL be on display from Saturday, November 16.
The popular festive countdown was last staged in Mell Square in 2014 but Solihull Bid, who organise the annual festivities, cited health and safety fears back in 2015 due to the expected large numbers of visitors and the switch-on celebrations ceased.
There's still plenty to enjoy though as the Festive Feast, organised by the Bid, will be returning from Wednesday, December 18 - Sunday December 22, with a host of tasty offerings to sample and last minute stocking fillers to buy.
Touchwood
The shopping centre promises a 'flurry of frosty treats and sparkly surprises' this Christmas.
Santa will be flying into the mall on Saturday, November 16 to officially launch the season of joy before taking up residence in his enchanting grotto along with his trusted team of elves.
The centre says it is also providing entertainment from special guests to crafts and the whole family.
Don't forget the extended shopping hours during December. For more information click here or call 0121 709 6900.
The Core Theatre
Malcolm Stent’s Songs of Praise at Christmas
Kicking off the season of Christmas cheer is Malcolm Stent’s Songs of Praise at Christmas which takes place on Tuesday, November 26 at 7.30pm.
The show promises Christmas music with carols and band pieces from the West Midlands Fellowship Band of the Salvation Army with piano-accompanied songs, monologues and comedy.
Much-loved Brummie, Stent, will be joined by soprano Maggie O’Hara and accompanied by David Lane.
Tickets are available at £18.
The Lock-in Christmas Carol
This show is proving a winner with locals and for one night, the Lock in Team are back on Thursday, November 28 at 7.30pm.
Billed as 'half gig, half dance show and half panto', the show features a BBC award-winning team of musicians and dancers for an evening of festive live music, song and dance.
The performance also features folk band 'The Demon Barbers' and artists from the Breaking Tradition Dance Company.
Tickets are £17 (adult), £15 (child).
MYJO Christmas Concert
Book early for this Christmas concert performed by the talented Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra on Friday November 29 at 7.30pm.
Their Christmas concert, with lots of Yuletide songs, is led by John Ruddick MBE.
Tickets available at £16.
Robin Hood - The Pantomime Adventure!
It's not Christmas without a trip to see a good old-fashioned British panto and this year there is a new show to tickle the funny bones of all the family.
Set in the heart of magical Sherwood Forest, young and old will enjoy the antics of Robin, Marion and the gang.
The show runs from Friday, December 13 to Sunday, January 5 with a variety of family-friendly times available.
There will be a special performance for people who would benefit from a more relaxed environment including those with sensory sensitivities, dementia, autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities on Thursday, January 2 2020 at 5.30pm. To book call 0121 704 6962. Tickets £21, concessions £19.
Santa in Love
A show for the very young and their parents, Santa in Love promises a fun-filled, family musical with games and plenty of Christmas songs.
Santa will be available after the 40 minute show for photos and there's a gift for each child too.
The show runs from Friday, December 20 until Tuesday, December 24 in the Studio. Tickets are £10.
Contact the box office on 0121 704 6962 or click here to book online.
Christmas 2019
Christmas Lights switch on in your area
Shirley
Despite concerns that there may not be a display of festive illuminations this year, Solihull councillors have reassured locals that Christmas lights will be twinkling along the main shopping parade .
The festive decorations will be switched on from Sunday, December 1, thanks to the council, local businesses and community group Friends of Shirley Park.
Olton
The community is set to gather at Olton Library ahead of the festive switch-on Saturday, November 23 on the Warwick Road.
Residents are then invited to the local church for further celebrations.
Hockley Heath
Hockley Heath Christmas Evening takes place on Saturday, November 30 at 4pm in the village.
Meet at the Christmas tree for carols with everyone invited back to to King George Memorial Hall for cakes, mulled wine, gifts and stalls. Free entry.
Chelmsley Wood
EastEnders star Steve McFadden, aka Phil Mitchell, will be popping into Chelmsley Wood for the The Big Switch-On which takes place from noon on Saturday, November 23.
Shoppers are promised 'plenty of fun, entertainment and surprise giveaways' and there's even the chance to meet and take a selfie with the hard-man.
Last year, Emmerdale actor Adam Thomas turned on the lights, while in 2017 Eastenders' Jake Wood, who plays Max Branning, did the honours.
Balsall Common
The Village Christmas Lights switch-on is planned for Friday, November 29, between 3.30-4pm.
Attendees will also be treated to a selection of Christmas carols by a local school choir.
And don't forget that good boys and girls will be thrilled to see Santa's Sleigh as well as the man himself when he flies through the village during the Santa Run.
This popular treat starts on Friday, December 13 across most evenings until Monday, December 23.
Santa and his helpers will also be in Balsall Common village centre on Saturday December 21 and on Christmas Eve.
Knowle
In Knowle the much-anticipated switch takes place on Wednesday, November 27.
Firm details are limited at present but last year's event saw local choirs singing a selection of traditional carols followed by late night shopping.
Dorridge
This year's illuminations will be switched on from 5pm on Monday, November 25.
Details are unclear at the moment but last year's hugely popular event included a Christmas choir, mini fun fair and food stalls.
Locals were entertained by a DJ while Santa took to the stage in the village square . An ale and prosecco bar ensured thirsty visitors were well refreshed.
