FESTIVE lights are set to dazzle later this month in Christchurch.

The town is gearing up for its big Christmas light switch on which takes place on Saturday, November 23.

The free Christmas extravaganza will take place in Christchurch high street between 11am and 7pm.

A countdown ceremony will see the Mayor of Christchurch and celebrity guests from the Bournemouth Pavillion pantomime switch on the lights at 5pm.

Mayor of Christchurch, Councillor Paul Hilliard, said: “It is going to be a wonderful start to the festive season where Christmas spirit fills every corner of Christchurch.

"The festive lights, especially those returning to the front of the Old Town Hall, are simply spectacular.

"It’s going to be a magical celebration, and I can’t wait to see everyone join in the festivities."

Organised by Christchurch Town Council and ORA Events, the event will feature live entertainment from headline act We Are Robot, Batala Samba Band, Acoustix, Nia Nicholls and many more.

Roaming entertainment will captivate the crowds with stilt walkers, Father Christmas, Elf on the Shelf, Minions and more.

The Hush Club will also be in the high street bringing the party energy with music, sequins, and cocktails.

Meanwhile, a festive market will feature a variety of gifts and craft stalls can be found in the Priory and Druitt Hall along with hot and cold food on the High Street.

There will also be funfair rides, face painting, and high-octane urban bike displays in Saxon Square taking place throughout the day.

The display will see mountain bike athletes carry out a series of daring stunts on a purpose-built rig.

A dazzling array of light displays will be in place across the town for people to enjoy from the deer on the roundabout to the Convent and Riverside walk leading to the bandstand.

Further displays will be situated along Bargates and in the high street.

High Street and Saxon Square will be closed from 7.30am to 10pm.

This year’s Christmas lights and switch on event is being delivered by Christchurch Town Council and ORA Events, in support of University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.

The full programme for the day can be found on the Christchurch Town Council website.