The glorious Ouseburn Open Studios weekender takes place this November and, as ever, I’ll be making a beeline in particular for all the good stuff that is happening at Mushroom Works.

For me, the Christmas countdown doesn’t begin when the high-street lights are switched on, or when the TV trails begin for the new Wallace and Gromit film. No, what really lights the blue touchpaper on my festive season is the winter version of the Ouseburn Open Studios weekender, which, this year, is taking place over Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November. As ever Mushroom Works will be throwing open their doors for a full weekend of creativity, culture and a behind-the-scenes peek at all the good stuff they do. It’s a brilliant chance to browse, meet makers, or pick up some amazing art. And if you’re in the mood for a bargain – and I can sense that you are – then you should know that they’ll also be doing their special selection of 25x25cm artworks at £25 a pop. They will also be hosting a cosy, pop-up café, which will be resplendent with delicious treats galore. In all nine venues are taking part in this year’s event – including the likes of The Biscuit Factory and 36 Lime Street – and you can find the full list at the website, below. DP

Ouseburn Open Studios, Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 November, mushroomworks.com; ouseburnopenstudios.org