Excited to share the Islington Storyteller’s Christmas Special Issue covering all things local for this holiday season. Can’t believe it’s been almost a year since this newsletter. It is heartwarming to see the community constantly growing – a massive thank you for being part of this passion project.
Following the magical lights switch-on a few weeks back in Angel and Highbury, the Islington Storyteller has been relentlessly peeking into local shops, workshops and studios, browsing for the perfect gifts for this coming holiday season. We even managed to get you a discount for an upcoming performance at the King’s Head!
The Local Gift List
Personalised Cake from Kipferl. This Austrian cafe in the heart of Islington has a great range of cakes and pies (even a vegan option for Sacher Torte!) You can buy a piece at the shop or order a whole cake with a personalised note on their website.
Website link
DIY Kit or Knitting Supplies. From Loop London in Camden Passage. You can browse the whole product line on their website.
More info
Young’s Pub Gift Voucher. These can be spent on drinks, a hearty meal or a Sunday roast at one of our favourite local pubs, including The Narrowboat, The Castle, King’s Head, The Canonbury and Duchess of Kent! A wide range of offers priced £10-150 – there is something for everyone.
More info
Wine Tasting. Experiences organised by Pacific Wines in Camden Passage.
Book here
Japanese Greeting Card. Pick one (or more!) elegantly unique greeting cards with Japanese prints by Ezen Designs. Also, look through their personalised Moleskine notebooks and vintage prints!
Online shop
Unique Plant or Pot. Pre-wrapped gifts at the Plants Design shop in Exmouth Market. The selection of pots is very impressive (might be guilty of buying more than one this month!).
Online shop
Christmas Wreath. Botanique Workshop, located in Exmouth Market, is not only running its regular masterclasses but also has released bookings for ordering DIY kits for Christmas wreaths. They come at £49 and are there to adorn your place for years to come.
More info
Membership at the Estorick Collection. Starting from £20 a year, this membership includes special invitations to art talks, exhibition previews, free gallery entry and other perks.
More information
Evening at Fidelio Cafe. This gem of an experience hidden in Clerkenwell includes a classical music concert and a specially-curated three-course meal.
Upcoming events
What else is on?
Some upcoming events and new places to check out in early January
Shhh! New at the King’s Head Theatre, Jan 3-14th
18th Century Romance meets 21st Century Dating. The play covers everything from love, dating, breakups — & most importantly, ghosting! What better way to start the New Year?
Tickets at £10-17 with 10% off for Islington Storyteller subscribers, just use the code GHOSTING10 when checking out.
31st December – New Year’s at the Jamboree
This recently reopened music venue is throwing a tropical-themed party ft samba, New Orleans jazz and skiffle, Bellydancing & tropical Discoteca! Dressing-up/down is optional, but encouraged!
Tickets & more info
3-21st January – The Conceptualists at Victoria Miro
This exhibition was specially extended until January 21st. The gallery will be welcoming visitors from January 3rd onwards.
More about the exhibition
Until 15th January – Sleeping Beauty at Sadlers Wells
A familiar story with a modern twist! Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the timeless tale of good vs evil is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder.
Dates and tickets
18-22 January – The London Art Fair
Discover emerging and established contemporary artists alongside an outstanding selection of 20th-century masters. Happening at the Islington Business Design Centre, and tickets are on sale already.
Tickets and more info
19th January – Viola Concert at Fidelio Cafe
One-hour concert followed by a three-course dinner. Come to meet Tim Ridout and James Ballieu for an exploration of how the viola developed a role as a solo instrument. Tickets start from £25.
Tickets and programme
19 January – Wine Tasting at Pacific Wines
How much do you know about vegan wines? Co-owner Rachel and the rest of the team at this recently opened wine shop will tell you all about it.
Events programme
22 January 6.30 pm – Remembrance Concert at the No 20 Gallery
In memory of the Holocaust, performed by The Minguet Quartet, the concert will feature Umbrae — the world premiere of a new string quartet by Roberto David Rusconi.
More information
Every Friday and Saturday – Houseparty at Bubba Oasis
Come on down to the electrifying atmosphere of this local bar and co-working space for some live DJs, cocktails on the house and remarkably energetic staff. Ah also, heated terrace is still there!
Dates and tickets
And it’s a wrap for today! Have the most magical Christmas and New Year’s, and thank you once again for your continued support. Will be back with more in 2023,
Ana
Photos courtesy of Young’s Pubs and the King’s Head Theatre
