GET UP AND GO: FOUR THINGS TO DO TODAY, WHATEVER TIME YOU GET OUT OF BED

12noon

The Puppet Exhibition at Gabriel's Wharf, London, follows the history of puppetry. There will be several shows in the day using puppets of all shapes and sizes, and a chance for young and old to try their hand at working a puppet. Open -6pm, free. Unit 13, Gabriel's Wharf, London SE1 (0171-620 0544)

1pm

The Cinemagic International Film Festival is attempting to raise the awareness of cinema throughout Northern Ireland, with a series of screenings and workshops. Today, Belfast MGM is showing Rigoletto and the premiere of Bonjour Timothy, a new film from New Zealand. (For screenings and details, ring 01232 550088/9)

2pm

Swansea's Ty Llen hosts a Science Fiction Festival, a series of talks, workshops and readings from well-known authors and critics. Today features a talk from Arthur C Clarke's brother Fred, an Evening of Sci- Fi, Poetry and Music and a talk on How to Write Science Fiction and Fantasy (01792 652211)

3pm

Get into the festive mood as the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square, London, is lit with white lights Norwegian-style. The tree will be lit from 3pm until midnight, and you can join the crowd and choir in carol singing until 10pm. Mind you, it might be the season of goodwill, but it's probably a good idea to watch out for those pickpockets...