I'm always thankful to live where I do, I love Brighton and Hove and all that goes on here. And there is no greater time than Christmas to remind me just how diverse, archaic, fun, exciting and lovable this place is.

Yes the influx of office Christmas parties does seem to overtake the usual Stag and Hen dos we see staggering down West Street. And yes I know Churchill Square is ALWAYS a nightmare (and the queues for the car park worse) but this is alleviated somewhat by seeing the Giving Tree at the Grotto with it's branches full of gifts for the local charity Chestnut Tree House. And I also like seeing the big lit up singing Santa bus parked up outside as I wait for my own bus to take me home. The North Laine is usually un-navigable and the small shops packed to the rafters with red faced shoppers but buskers and dogs sometimes wear Santa hats and the small lanes ring with festive tunes.

From November onwards you can visit or take part in plenty of festive themed events like the mad Santa Dash along the seafront that sees seemingly unsporty chaps donning full Father Christmas garb and enjoying a 5k run to raise money for Crisis. Santa's running by the sea? Only in Brighton. And if you aren't fit enough for that you can enter a team in the Christmas Pudding Race instead, which is like It's A Knockout but with festive foodstuffs.

The plethora of local artists and crafty folk open their houses again in December to make for a great alternative to online shopping and of course there are plenty of outdoor markets and charity Christmas fairs where you can buy your cards and unusual gifts.

We are lucky enough to be steeped in history and the beautiful Pavilion opens it's doors for carols, banquets and Father Christmas himself. Or you can take a walk that promises to recreate a Regency Christmas (apparently Caroline of Brunswick might have started the tradition for Christmas trees in England).

Or if you prefer to celebrate a more pagan festival this time of year then our unique event Burning The Clocks is a sight to behold. The Winter Solstice parade that burns paper lanterns on the beach to mark the end of the year.

These are just the things that make me smile, I am sure you have your own favourite, festive traditions or events that feel special to you and the area, but I am sure you'll agree: Brighton - beautiful in Summer, brilliant at Christmas.

Merry Christmas everyone, and especially to the bus driver who dresses up as Santa!

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Readers who submit articles must agree to our terms of use. The content is the sole responsibility of the contributor and is unmoderated. But we will react if anything that breaks the rules comes to our attention. If you wish to complain about this article, contact us here