The dates for the switching on of this years Christmas lights in Stevenage have been revealed. 

Lights will be switched on in the town centre and the Old Town, with free entertainment on offer at both events. 

There will be an evening of activities at the new Event Island in the town centre on Thursday, November 24.

Live music, face painting, a polar bear and snow globe, an ice rink and Christmas market will all be available for residents to enjoy, with activities starting at 3.30pm. 

Kids will also have the opportunity to meet Santa Claus and receive a free gift. 

Then at 6.30pm, the Christmas lights will be switched on by this year’s special guests – Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist Immi Davis, Stevenage FC striker Luke Norris, and Boro Bear. 

On Saturday, November 26, there will be a variety of performances in the Old Town from 5.30pm before the lights are switched on an hour later by the Mayor of Stevenage, Cllr Margaret Notley.

Refreshments will be available from outside Springfield House Community Centre. 

Cllr Richard Henry, portfolio holder for culture, leisure, children and young people, said: “It’s approaching the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to mark the start of the festive season than with one of our Christmas lights switch-on events."