Things to do today in London is sponsored by the Museum of London. Scroll down to get your Christmas shopping done there.
Things to do
SCIENCE MUSEUM MATHEMATICS: Maths has shaped and influenced the world we live in today. Find out why at the Science Museum with the launch of Mathematics: The Winton Gallery, and explore the role of mathematicians. The brand new gallery hosting is designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. Free, just turn up, 10am-6pm
IMPERIAL FRINGE: Meet researchers who work in the world's most exotic places, including the Sahara Desert and Antarctica, at Imperial Fringe's All Around The World event. Free, book ahead, 5pm-8pm
FLOWER ARRANGING: Create a blooming great bouquet, and try your hand at flower arranging at Farmopolis. £27, book ahead, 5pm-10pm (pick a time slot)
SPICE WORLD SCREENING: Really wanna zig-ah-zig-ah? Head over to The Gallery Cafe for a screening of 1997's Spice World, celebrating 20 years of Wannabe and the Spice album. Free, book ahead, 6.30pm-9pm
INSPIRING WOMEN: Explore the role of women in sport, in Crossing the Line. The panel at the Aon Centre includes Ireland women's rugby team captain Niamh Briggs, author Sarah Outen and Goals4Girls CEO Francesca Brown. £25, book ahead, 6.30pm-9.30pm
MOTOWN CHRISTMAS CONCERT: Get funky for a good cause with the Motown Christmas Concert at St Giles in the Fields. Hosted by Mo Pleasure — music director for Bette Midler — this is a fundraiser for those with financial, psychological or emotional issues. £30, book ahead, from 6.30pm
WESTMINSTER GHOST TRAIL: Prepare for chills and thrills as you make your way along the Thames and through Covent Garden. On the Westminster Ghost Trail, you'll discover tales of long-dead celebrities, mysterious doppelgangers and lost souls for an eerie winter's night. £10/£7, just turn up, from 6.30pm
A WORK IN PROGRESS: "A bit posh and something of a sociopath" is how Tania Edwards has been described. Make up your own mind at the Pleasance Theatre, where she's trialling new material. £5, book ahead, from 7.45pm
ELF: This screening is for the die-hard Elf fans. Travel to New York with Buddy the Elf, courtesy of Prince Charles Cinema's Elf Quote Along. £13.50/£11 members, book ahead, from 9pm
CROSSRAIL AND ART: Crossrail's so big it's got its own artist-in-residence. Julie Leonard's exhibition at The Building Centre produces striking images seen through the eyes of the diverse Crossrail workforce. Free, just turn up, until 22 December
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Get your Christmas shopping sorted at Museum of London’s market
December's here, which means it's time to get gifts ticked off your shopping list. Avoid the high street this year and check out the Crafty Fox Christmas Night Market at the Museum of London Docklands. This is a one-stop shopping destination popping up on 8 December, featuring a hand-picked selection of over 70 makers and creators, as well as workshops and drop-ins so you can get crafty yourself.
From interiors to jewellery, clothes to cards, there will be gift ideas to suit every style and budget. Running from 4pm-9pm, the market will also have festive drinks and DJs to get you in the Christmas mood. Be inspired, get organised and feel thoroughly festive: this crafty night market is not to be missed.
Good cause for the day
CAROLLING WITH SAMARITANS: Spread joy this season and take a carolling workshop at the Virgin Money Lounge before performing at Trafalgar Square, aiding Central London Samaritans. With singing, refreshments and goodwill, it's the perfect way to give back this Christmas. £22.07, book ahead for 11 December, 1pm-5pm
EXPRESSIVE PORTRAITS: Swirling colours form barely recognisable faces and bodies in these energetic portraits by Johan Van Mullem. These dense paintings are waiting to be unravelled by visitors. Johan van Mullem: De Anima at The Unit London. Until 6 January, free. ★★★☆☆ [Monday-Sunday]