Introducing our Advent Calendar – here’s the twentieth post in a cultural countdown to Christmas. Today: Panic buying and pop-up food

Ok, hands up – who’s still not finished their Christmas shopping? Yeah…us neither. In the spirit of keeping panic levels down, we’re heading to Altrincham market – and, admittedly, it’s also a pretty good shout for the smug ones among you who already have everything wrapped and under the tree. That’s because Alty market not only has stalls stuffed to busting with potential gifts (including homeware, vintage picks, craft and foodie treats), it’s also rather good for food and drink, too. Strap babies to your back (your own, not other people’s), tuck your elbow in and – bingo! – Christmas is saved. Altrincham Market, 9am-10pm.

Do more. If you’re not too tuckered out from the Alty crowds, head towards Manchester’s Deansgate for a popular pop-up food event that’s been pulling in the punters. The team behind Beat Street have made a name for themselves with a ‘Food Fight’ series in 2014: they bring eats, beats and booze to the Great Northern Warehouse this evening. Food stalls include Dim Sum Su, the Chow Down Burger Co. and Penelope’s Ice cream (brrr). Great Northern Warehouse, 235 Deansgate, M3 4EN, 5pm-12am.