Stevenage is set to be illuminated this November, with Christmas lights switch-on events taking place in both the Old Town High Street, and New Town centre at Event Island.

The town centre lights switch-on will take place on Thursday 24 November, between 3.30-7pm. The event will be packed with entertainment for the whole family, including: live music, face painting, a polar bear and snow globe, ice rink and Christmas market. There’s also the chance to meet Santa Claus and receive a gift.

The lights will be illuminated at 6.30pm by Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Immi Davies and Luke Norris & Boro Bear of Stevenage Football Club. This year’s event is sponsored by Nexus Fostering, who have been making a difference to the lives of vulnerable children and young people in foster care since 2002.

The Old Town event will be held on Saturday 26 November, between 5.30-6.30pm. There will be performances before the lights are switched on by Mayor Councillor Margaret Notley at 6.30pm, and refreshments will be available throughout the evening, outside Springfield House Community Centre.

Councillor 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.

“Both events promise to be fun-filled afternoons with entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, so come along and see our town centre and Old Town lit up.”

Both events are free to attend.