I'm refusing to mention the 'C' word just yet - there's a long way to go before 25 December arrives.
However, those of you who get yourselves organised early will be delighted to know that Hitchin's Market Place will give you plenty of opportunities for boosting your regular shopping.
Next week is a treat for the foodies, with the Hitchin Food & Drink Festival and Creative Kitchen. All day Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, there's activities, stalls and demonstrations on the Market Place. You can also follow the Taster Trail and support a range of diverse local businesses.
A treat not to be missed will be Nick Coffer's cookery demo at 3pm on the Saturday. Known to many as a presented on BBC Three Counties, Nick is a proficient cook - and encourages his children to join him in the kitchen. He's also a patron of the event.
Mind you, there's plenty on the rest of the weekend if you ever needed any reminder of the culinary treats offered locally.
And that's just the start - it seems like every weekend through to the end of the year will be busy in the town centre. You won't want to book any weekends away!
To find out more, click here: https://www.facebook.com/HitchinFoodFest
