Halloween may have only just come to an end but some of the city’s businesses have already got festive fever.

Shoppers in Brighton have noticed festive decorations and even Christmas trees being put up in store windows over the last few days.

Sunshine Crafts in North Street has decorated its shopfront with a Christmas tree and a range of festive knitted characters, including gnomes, elephants, zebras and Santa himself.

The Argus: A Christmas tree and festive decorations have appeared in the shop window of WaterstonesA Christmas tree and festive decorations have appeared in the shop window of Waterstones (Image: The Argus)

Not to be outdone, Waterstones in North Street has also put up a Christmas tree on display, with Paddington, the Cat in the Hat and the Grinch all nested among its branches.

A number of festive books are also on display, along with a “Santa stop here” sign.

Those going to enjoy a night of karaoke at Lucky Voice in Black Lion Street might be tempted to sing Christmas anthems with a festive wreath decked out in baubles greeting visitors.

The Argus: Visitors to Lucky Voice in Brighton will be welcomed with a festive wreathVisitors to Lucky Voice in Brighton will be welcomed with a festive wreath (Image: The Argus)

People grabbing a drink from one of the city’s many coffee shops also might spot a festive flourish.

Starbucks has released their full range of festive drinks, while Christmas-themed vinyl graphics have appeared on the windows of Costa Coffee in Bond Street.

Meanwhile, at Greggs, customers may have spotted mince pies making an appearance among the selection of pastries.

One Argus reader even said they heard Poundland in North Street playing festive music.

She said: “I was infuriated - it’s only the first week of November. I feel bad for retail staff who will have to listen to it for more than six weeks.”

Work to install the city’s Christmas lights is also underway, with the illuminations appearing in The Lanes and North Laine.

Brilliant Brighton, a not-for-profit organisation made up of more than 500 businesses in the city centre, organises the Christmas lights every year, with the big switch-on planned for November 17.

The organisation is planning a “festive afternoon” on December 2 “to celebrate that the lights are a gift to the city from our city centre businesses”.

A Christmas window dressing competition will also return next year, with visitors and customers able to vote for their favourite festively designed shopfront.