Too early? Nope, Christmas has officially started so get into the festive mood with some of these events.

1. Brewery Open Days at The Colchester Brewery, Viaduct Brewhouse, Wakes Hall Business Centre, Wakes Colne. colchesterbrewery.com

Nothing says Christmas like a tipple so excellent news Colchester’s very own brewery is holding some open days. They take place on November 30 and December 7 from 11am to 4pm each day, where you can take a tour around the brewery, enjoy some light refreshments and of course purchase some award winning beers.

2. The Minories Christmas Market, High Street, Colchester, November 30 and December 1. Free. theminoriesgalleries.co.uk

If you like supporting local artists and makers, then this is the place to pick up a unique Christmas gift for your loved ones. Jam packed with hand-made artworks, there will also be Jan Williams with her storytelling hour at 11am and 3pm on both days.

3. Lion Walk’s Christmas Light Switch On, Colchester, November 27, 5pm to 9pm. Free.

A sumptuous line-up of attractions including students from TheatreTrain, Blind Veterans March and the Royal Hospital School Band and music from Soul’d Out and local singer Abbie Hartley.

4. Colchester Castle’s Christmas Open Evening, Castle Park, December 11, 3pm to 8.30pm. Free, £5 for Santa’s Grotto. colchester.cimuseums.org.uk

One of the town’s most popular events so do plan for it to be a busy, especially if you want to get into Santa’s Grotto. But the highlight is a chance to access the Castle late at night with a suitable Christmassy atmosphere.

5. A Christmas Carol by Candlelight, Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, December 23 and 24, 7.30pm and 7pm. £6. 01206 500900.

Almost as traditional as the Queen’s Speech, arts centre’s director Anthony Roberts is back with the perfect precursor to Christmas. Suitably lit and with gloriously atmospheric music provided by pianist Jamie Cunliffe, money raised going to charity.