Things to Do in London - EFG Jazz Fest, Christmas Markets, and Rooftop Revelry

Welcome to Things to Do in London! Today is Thursday, November 13, 2025, and I’m Oly Bennet—your roving, rugby-crazed guide to the UK capital’s quirkiest happenings and wildest wonders. The city’s bursting with post-rain sparkle and, with the low autumn sun peeking out, you can practically taste the mince pies in the air. Imagine a London humming with both the promise of festive magic and some epic midweek energy. Let’s kick off with what’s hot right now. You’ll want to break out your jazz hands: the EFG London Jazz Festival is warming up for its opening night tomorrow and you can already catch the buzz with pop-up jams sweeping through clubs like Jack Solomons tonight. There are also free jazz workshops cropping up at Southbank Centre if you fancy getting in on the groove early, and keep an eye out for surprise outdoor sets—London’s about to get delightfully syncopated according to Secret London. Across town, the mighty Event Tech Live 2025 wraps up at Excel London this afternoon. It’s where virtual reality, neon-lit robots, and networking pros meet for the world’s top event technology show. Think futuristic demos, hands-on gadgets, and more lanyards than you can shake a Premier League scarf at. If you’re coming by public transport, Custom House station (Elizabeth line and DLR) is the way to go; just note that Sandstone Lane and Seagull Lane are closed to cars, so plan your route accordingly. If you’re hunting for something family-friendly, Christmas markets have landed early. Covent Garden has transformed into a festive fairyland with twinkling stalls and their brand-new LEGO Chalet of Play. It’s a pop-up wonder—giant LEGO snowmen included—open through November for completely free brick-building revelry with occasional Santa sightings according to SheerLuxe. Meanwhile, Old Spitalfields Market starts its Christmas season today with handpicked gifts, street eats, and sheltered artisanal stalls—a lifesaver given the classic London drizzle. For live music lovers, take your pick! The band Above & Beyond is set to lift spirits at O2 Academy Brixton, while Bahamas brings mellow vibes to the magical Union Chapel. Want a free treat? Time Out recommends a secret jazz jam at Jack Solomons in Soho—no ticket required, just bring your best toe-tapping moves. Culture vultures, don’t miss Liliane Lijn’s artist talk at Tate Modern, or score rare tickets to Big Ben’s belfry—yes, you can actually climb inside and feel the reverberating bong up close for today only, according to ianVisits. Looking ahead to the evening, rooftops and riversides are getting frostier but still inviting. For after-dark adventure, check out Winter by the River at London Bridge City for illuminated pop-ups, mulled wine, and Thames-side fairy lights, opening today and running all season. On the local news front: Kew Gardens is prepping for its legendary Christmas lights extravaganza, so snag your tickets early. Transport-wise, the Tube is running full service, but check TfL for upd This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.