The guide: Weekend things to do

In need of some ideas for something to keep you entertained this weekend?

Here are a few suggestions of events taking place in Essex on Friday, 13, Saturday, 14 and Sunday, 15 November.

Christmas Lights

Real reindeer will be part of the magical parade

On Saturday, 14 November, BBC Essex will be helping to illuminate Southend with a variety of events throughout the afternoon and early evening.

There will be a 'magical parade' through the high street from 1pm, which will lead up to the BBC Essex stage at Pier Hill.

Live music and entertainment will take place throughout the afternoon, before the lights are switched on at 5pm, followed by a firework finale at 5.30pm.

For more information, visit the Southend-on-Sea Borough Council website.

On Sunday, it is Harlow's turn for some festive frivolity, with its 'Christmas Cracker'.

Street entertainments and live performances will take place on the Broadwalk and Harvey Centre throughout the afternoon.

The stars of the Harlow Playhouse pantomime 'Cinderella' will also be on hand to help switch the lights on at 4.30pm.

For more information, head to the Harlow Council website.

BBC Essex will be at other Christmas lights switch-ons. Click here to find out where.

Kids & Family

Keeping on a festive theme, of sorts, the enchanting chimes of handbells will reverberate around Writtle on Saturday, 14 November.

Writtle Handbell Ringers will be performing at All Saints Church to raise money for The J's Hopsice.

To hear them in action click on the audio link:

As well as being able to enjoy performances by the professionals, there will also be the chance to test your timing and ear for music by having a go yourself.

Doors open at 11am until 1pm. For more information, call 01245 421508.

Nature & Outdoors

Global adventurer and photographer John Beatty will be giving a talk on wildlife photography in Southend as part of his 'Wild Vision' series.

The 'audience with...' style talk will be held on Friday, 13 November at the Palace Theatre in Southend.

During his career John has photographed in 38 different countries, at locations such as the American deserts, East Africa, Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands.

His work has appeared on the front page of the The Times and The National Geographic.

The event gets under way at 8pm. For more information visit the Palace Theatre website.

Arts & Culture

Early Autumn Chappel, by Wladyslaw Mirecki

An exhibition of watercolours by artist Wladyslaw Mirecki will begin at Chappel Galleries on Saturday, 14 November.

His traditional style depicts Essex at its most beautiful, from its country lanes and long coastline to its renowned landmarks, such as his beloved Chappel viaduct.

Of Polish descent, Mirecki was born and bred in Essex and has been exhibiting around Essex and London for over 20-years.

As well as devoting time to his own art, he also runs Chappel Galleries with his wife Edna, giving other local artists a chance to display their work throughout the year.

The exhibition is open every Thursday to Sunday until 6 December. For more information, head to the Chappel Galleries.

Out and About

An insight into eco-friendly living can be found at the Colchester Green Fair on Saturday, 14 November.

Advice and information from a number of societies and groups will be available, as well as a chance to talk to other people who have already adopted a 'green' approach.

There will also be a number of local craft and food stalls, plus live music.

The fair takes place between 10am and 4pm at the Bunting Rooms in Essex Street. For more information, call 01255 254548.