CHRISTMAS is coming to Mansfield as the town prepares for the Big Switch On

There will be free fun and festive activities from 11am in Mansfield Town Centre until the Christmas lights are switched on and the event ends with a spectacular fireworks display above the Market Place just before 5pm.

Children can join in a circus skills and magic workshop in the Market Place at 11.30am or make Aladdin’s hat or lantern at the Buzzy B Club in the Four Seasons Shopping Centre from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

There will be on-stage performances by Razzamataz and Mansfield Rock Choir, while Expressions Performing Arts will sing Christmas Carols outside Queen’s Place. Mansfield BID is providing a free Aladdin-themed treasure hunt with goody bags to be won.

Start your festive shopping at the Christmas market on Westgate, which will have plenty of handmade gifts and treats including cupcakes, toys and jewellery.

Family favourite Paddington will be shown in two parts on large screens in the Market Place from 12.15pm to 1pm with the second half from 1.30pm until 2.15pm.

Don’t forget that at 2pm Santa’s horse drawn sleigh will parade down Westgate from St John Street to the area next to the library as he makes his way to open his Toy Factory grotto at the Four Seasons Shopping Centre. Santa will be joined at intervals by Paddington™, Sammy the Stag and Four Seasons’ mascot, Buzz, as well as stars from the Palace Theatre’s Aladdin pantomime. There will be festive stiltwalkers and we’ve heard it may even snow.

The Market Place will have a Christmas party atmosphere with singing, dancing, games and prizes on stage from 3pm to 3.30pm.

It will be followed by live music from Ashley Rebanks who will sing a selection of Michael Bublé and Rat Pack inspired Christmas favourites. Feel the Noize - a local Slade tribute act - will be sure to get you into the festive spirit.

One lucky child, the winner of Mansfield 103.2’s charity auction, will switch on the lights and set off a magical firework display.

Councillor Mick Barton, deputy mayor of Mansfield, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch On promises a full day of festive fun and entertainment for all the family - so don’t stay at home and miss out. Come and join us and get your Christmas off to a fantastic start.

​There is a viewing area for disabled people at the parade in addition to a viewing platform at the stage show.

Places are limited so call 01623 463376 to book your space.​​​​​​ Make sure you wrap up warm and are prepared for all weather conditions.

​The full programme, along with details of a wide range of Christmas events happening in Mansfield, is now available in the Mansfield Xmas Festival What’s On guide, which has been delivered to homes across the district. You can also download a copy from www.mansfield.gov.uk/whatson.

The Big Switch On event is organised by Mansfield District Council with support from Mansfield 103.2, Mansfield Palace Theatre, Mansfield BID, Four Seasons Shopping Centre and 6 Five 2s taxis.