February’s arrived, offering one of the first major art shows that’ll leave you dazzled, a European love letter to legendary hip-hop producer J-Dilla, Chinese New Year celebrations and buckets of seafood at a pop-up in East (that makes a change from burgers, we think!).

Friday

ART & CULTURE: Light Show at the Hayward Gallery, Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XZ

How much: £11

We say: Light. We have built pyramids to worship it, sundials to utilise it and, more recently in our relatively short homo sapien history, solar panels to harness and regenerate it. Twenty-three artists heralding from Venezuela to Wales have been brought together for their work with this most essential of natural phenomena at the Hayward. Open until 8pm on Fridays.

Info: ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk

EAT & DRINK: Seafood Shack pop-up, The Arch Gallery, Arch 289, Cambridge Heath Road, Bethnal Green E2 9HA

How much: Various

We say: This three-day pop-up is giving you more seafood that you can shake a crab claw at – so if you’re partial to a crustacean and want to eat to your heart’s content, book in advance by calling Jimmy (07815808735) or Sicolas (07875 238 095).

Info: www.facebook.com

Saturday

CINEMA: J-Dilla: A European Remembrance, Hackney Attic, Hackney Picturehouse, 270 Mare Street, E8 1HE

How much: FREE (limited tickets available on the door on the night)

They say: London filmmaker Shernay Latouche has taken a European perspective to produce a film dedicated to this highly regarded hip-hop producer who sadly passed away on February 10 2006. There will also be a Q&A from the director, cast and producers on the night.

Info: www.facebook.com/events

ART & CULTURE: Art In Mind: Steam Punk exhibition at The Brick Lane Gallery, 196 Brick Lane, E16 (finishes this weekend!)

How much: FREE

We say: You’ve got a couple more days to check out this jaw-dropping exhibition featuring four artists using paint, photography and illustration to present their views on the world.

Info: www.thebricklanegallery.com

Sunday

EAT & DRINK: Breakfast at The Hawksmoor, 157 Commercial St London E1 6BJ

How much: From £15

We say: Headed to Brick Lane Market this weekend? Eat like a king (or queen) beforehand with a visit to Hawksmoor for their acclaimed and hearty breakfast. Plum pudding bacon anyone?

Info: www.thehawksmoor.com

ALTERNATIVE: Chinese New Year Celebrations at Rich Mix, 35-47 Bethnal Green Rd City of London, London, Greater London E1 6LA

How much: FREE

We say: This free fest will offer a number of cultural shows to mark the annual occasion, including a martial arts display, a traditional Chinese music ensemble and a folk dance – plus Chinese food will be available throughout the day.

Info: www.richmix.org.uk/whats-on

For more things to do in London, visit www.theculturalexpose.co.uk

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