Stafford's annual Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Saturday 21 November, with thousands expected to gather in Market Square for live music, street entertainment and a firework display.
The lights will be switched on at 5pm, followed by more live music. A 40ft decorated Christmas tree will be positioned in the centre of Market Square, and a large video screen will ensure visibility of the main stage events.
Stars from the Gatehouse Theatre's panto production of Aladdin will appear on stage alongside the Mayor of Stafford Borough, Councillor Mark Winnington, and Father Christmas. The performers include Mark Rhodes, David Phipps-Davis and Samantha Spragg, who plays the Genie.
Community Walking Parade
The day begins at 12 noon with a community Walking Parade starting at Tipping Street and travelling through the town. Around 100 people representing ten local groups will participate.
What to expect
The event typically attracts around 10,000 people to Market Square and surrounding streets. Organisers are urging visitors to arrive early, as the main area in Market Square will be temporarily closed from 4.45pm for safety reasons.
Councillor Gillian Pardesi, Cabinet Member for Leisure at the Borough Council, said the event provides a showcase for Stafford in the run-up to Christmas and offers families and shoppers a reason to visit the town centre.
Ross Stephenson, Freedom Leisure's Events Manager, described it as "the biggest day of the year in the town centre calendar" and highlighted the community groups taking part in the Walking Parade.
More details and timings will be available soon. Tickets for Aladdin at the Gatehouse Theatre are available from 01785 619080 or www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk/