Irrespective of whether you have been naughty or nice this year, the LondonSalsa community promises you gifts in the coming month.

Many of the teachers and promoters make special offers to our members (look out for the yellow splash on event listing pages to take advantage) and in this period are often kind enough to lay out mince pies, fruit or chocolates - thank you.

If you have enjoyed your lessons this year, why not write your teacher a card or bring them some home made cookies. (healthy ones of course).

According to the British Dietetic Association, the average person puts on 2kg over the Christmas period.

Christmas is about having fun with friends and family, and of course a little indulgence! Nonetheless, there are ways of enjoying yourself over the festive season without piling on the pounds! 

I had a quick scan of the seasonal diary and there are events for everyone pretty much every day other than Christmas eve and Christmas day! Have a look in a week's time perhaps we'll have a full house of salsa.

Whether you are a staycationing London dancer or someone visiting London for a holiday, you are going to need plenty of party clothes. 

My regular chime is that we have 100s of parties and lessons on site, so this newsletter only contains a fraction, so if I inspire but fail to pinpoint, please hop on www.londonsalsa,co.uk.

Also a quick reminder you to check with your teachers their particular holiday schedules.

Arrive early for the salsa classes in Putney on Friday and you are rewarded with a free additional bachata class. 

I also promised Renato a shout out for Friday's salsa party at Lakeside, Surrey - Ediit & Kat, Steve Eden and the Southampton Ladies are performing, there are multiple level classes and a late finish. I've been to Renato's venue and can guarantee a great dance floor and a friendly welcome.

DJ Hughie at the decks at Theatre Royal in Stratford with a free Friday funky night of salsa, latin, bachata, mambo and more.

The late night party is in Balham, where Miguel and Mayana have DJ Dennis Dale aka "The Chemist" for their Xmas social till 2am.

For Saturday there is 3 hour bachata intensive workshop (all levels beginners to advanced) in Putney.

Saturday's mix in Whetstone includes a Gold and Glitter theme, lessons in salsa, bachata, cha cha and kizomba.

For kizomba lovers, there is a free lesson before the late night, red themed, two-roomed party in Brixton.

You could start your Sunday with the Deep Salsa for Intermediates workshop at Bar Salsa in Charing Cross. Quote London Salsa for your £5 discount.

DJ Hughie is busy on Sunday, firstly DJing in Ilford in the afternoon and then early evening in Stratford.

Richmond's most glamorous night of the year is their Christmas Ball on Sunday, with 4 hours of dance time to a live band and DJ.

Enjoy your week of dance, 

Leigh and the LondonsonSalsa team