Wow, where did that year go? 2022 seemed to whoosh past. A new year can feel daunting, and with the cold weather and dark nights still upon us, it’s easy to let those winter blues creep in. But fear not. There are many exciting things to see and do in the UK and beyond to lift our mood. Harry Potter fan? Put your wands in the air for some seriously pot-tastic events. And if you want to experience something ‘stranger’, we have just the ‘thing’ for you… (We tried). Or if you’re just into good music and delicious food, well, there’s something special to get your teeth into. (We’re done, promise.) 

Want to discover more fascinating places? Check out the best winter city breaks: Stockholm

Is a culture-vulture your spirit animal? Uncover these nine top museums worth planning your trip around

Stranger Things, The Experience - London

Immerse yourself in Stranger Things – right here in London! Based on the iconic Netflix show, this one-of-a-kind experience gives you the chance to be the hero of your own adventure. Journey through Hawkins Laboratory and the eery Rainbow Room, where you’ll take part in a story-driven interactive adventure and use your powers to save the town of Hawkins alongside Eleven, Dustin, Mike, Lucas, Max and Will. The fun doesn’t end here, though. After you’ve saved the day, you can visit an 80s-style medley of Hawkin’s favourite spots, such as Scoops Ahoy, Surfer Boy Pizza, and the Palace Arcade, each with merchandise, photo opportunities, interactive performers, and even more surprises. And, of course, there’s plenty of food and drink – being a hero is thirsty work. Whether you visit alone, with your family, workmates or with your crew, this is one strange experience you don’t want to miss. 

Find it: Troubadour Brent Cross Studios, from now until January 2023 feverup.com 

The most spectacular show in the world - Madrid

In a dystopian world where music is forbidden, (imagine if Footloose had a sequel) WAH Madrid is the last stronghold, a utopia where you can still enjoy your favourite songs. Combining classic tunes from your favourite musicals, heart-warming stories, and spectacular set design and costumes, this truly unique, immersive musical and gastronomical experience takes you down memory lane to celebrate the greatest hits in music history and the tastiest food on earth. It’s no wonder it’s been touted as the ‘Cirque du Soleil’ of music and food combined. And the fun doesn’t stop there. After the show, there’s an epic afterparty where you can dance the night away. In addition, WAH Madrid has an exclusive VIP area with a bar and table service so you can dine while enjoying the performances – what’s not to love?  

Find it: Ifema, Madrid from now until March 2023 feverup.com 

Harry Potter: A forbidden forest experience - Cheshire and Brussels

Fans will remember Professor Dumbledore firmly telling first years that the Forbidden Forest is strictly prohibited for all students. Well, now you are allowed to enter, at your own risk…Harry Potter: a Forbidden Forest Experience has returned to Europe, in Cheshire and Brussels, with even more to explore than last year. As you make your way into the deep, dark depths of the forest, you will be immersed in a world that feels like it has been plucked straight from the pages of Harry Potter™ and Fantastic Beasts.™  With incredible staging, haunting sounds, atmospheric lighting and magical creatures, the Wizarding World is brought to life right before your eyes. So, what are you waiting for? Your spellbinding adventure starts in the Forbidden Forest.

Find it: Cheshire, UK and Brussels, Belgium from now until January 2023 feverup.com 

Harry Potter: A Yule Ball Celebration - Milan

If you’re a diehard ‘Pothead’, putting on a stunning dress like Hermione’s and dancing the night away has been your dream since you first discovered this magical world, so here’s your opportunity to make that fantasy a reality…You’ve been cordially invited to attend the Harry Potter Yule Ball. And what better place to dress up than in one of the world’s major fashion capitals, Milan? With interactive performances and Wizarding World-worthy photo opportunities, there are also yummy canapes and drinks, including the famous Butterbear. And when you’re not dancing or casting spells, you can treat yourself or a fellow Harry Potter fan to some souvenirs to take away. The ball is two hours long, but when you’re having this much fun, time will fly by like the Weasley’s car. It’s also an excellent opportunity to practise your Italian. Did you know that Erumpant translates to Erompente? Or that a Bowtruckle is an Asticello? And as for Wizarding World, you could say Magico Mondo. Which honestly sounds even more fantastic. 

Find it: Milan, Italy, from now until January 2023 feverup.com