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Glowing domes, the Queen's speech and ballet with a Cuban twist

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The bright lights

Discover thousands of weird and wonderful plant species in the beautiful biomes of Cornwall's Eden Project, which attracts half a million visitors a year. To celebrate the festive season, the Mediterranean and Rainforest structures will be lit up for Christmas, making them look very much like gigantic baubles. Outside, the gardens will also dazzle with light displays. Along with visits to Santa, Cornwall's only ice rink and lots more, the Eden Project makes a perfect Cornish Christmas outing.

* Tickets from edenproject.com

Did you know?

Receiving a compliment or small act of kindness is one of the best ways to boost our mood. Mental health charity Mind found that 83% of us respond to them positively, with almost half saying such gestures kept them uplifted throughout the rest of the day.

A CUBAN CHRISTMAS

Director Carlos Acosta adds new fire to a seasonal favourite with his production Nutcracker in Havana. Blending vibrant Cuban dance traditions with traditional ballet, it's performed by members of Carlos' company Acosta Danza, to a reinterpretation of Tchaikovsky's score – though the Sugar Plum Fairy's theme is untouched! Currently touring until 11 February 2026.

* nutcrackerinhavana.com

On this day in history

23 December 1992. The Queen's Speech was due at 3pm on Christmas Day – but the text was leaked to The Sun, and it was published two days ahead of schedule. The undignified headline read