Christmas is coming, and tonight is the time to switch on Lucy, Zurich’s famous Christmas lights. Even if it doesn’t feel very Christmassy yet, (check the weather forecast though,) grab a Glühwein and enjoy the festive glow along Bahnhofstrasse. Alternatively, if you’re a regular at «Bar Humbug» and think Lucy is short for Lucifer, you might see this as an enormous waste of energy and time. In that case, be warned: the Christmas lights are being switched on, the trams will be packed with kids during rush hour, and it’s best to avoid Bahnhofstrasse altogether! Have a great weekend and…

Give my love to the city

So Ronster... what is the connection between Ireland, Scotland and Switzerland? And this week we have some great live music, an Alpine speciality and an arty festival. Oh yeah, some live music and a chance to get on the ice for free.

Thursday: A Graubunden Speciality at Chesa Capuns
Friday: An Award Winning Comedian Pays Us A Visit
Friday & Saturday: Whisky Galore At Volkshaus
Friday & Saturday: Movement, Visuals and Electronic Music At Gesnerallee
Sunday: Go Skating For Free
Sunday: Fat Freddy Drops In

Fat Freddy’s Drop are widely regarded as one of the best live acts on the planet and, as far as we know, any other planet. They are back in Zurich this Sunday at Halle 622 and, miraculously, there are still tickets on sale. They are touring their very recently released album, «Slo Mo».

Berlin based label Toy Tonics brings its unique mix of Italo Disco, electro, DIY style, and positive energy to Kraftwerk Zürich. Ready for great music, party, art 'n tastyness? Then grab your tickets here and we'll see you on the dancefloor this Saturday, 23 November.

The Swiss people go to the polls and take advantage of their direct democracy. Roads and medical bills are high on the agenda but i think the outcome of the vote on tenancy is going to have the most effect on the people of Zurich. As well as the National votes the city also votes on the gender star, affordable housing, and tarting up the Rathausbrücke, amongst other things. Click the button to find out how this all affects you.

When I go shopping, I often end up between the shelves of large retailers. But i also know that I should really visit the «Lädeli» (small shops) of this city much more often. In every district, there are wonderful little stores with unique products, where you can still strike up a conversation with the people, who are usual knowledgeable and delighted to discuss their wares. To give you a good overview of these Zurich shops, I’ve created a list of my favourite «Lädeli» that I’ll continue to update. Here's my list of shops in Kreis 7 - 12. Click here if you want to check out my list from Kreis 1 - 6.