Christmas festivities begin in Worcester on Thursday 21 November, when sparkling lights will be switched on from Cathedral Square as part of a fun-packed family evening.
The event starts at 4.00pm, with members of the Worcester Wolves basketball team on hand in Cathedral Square to give basketball demonstrations, sign autographs, have photos and talk about the game. There will also be 'have a go' sessions for young people.
"We are very proud to be part of this year's Christmas Lights switch on and have the opportunity to showcase basketball in our great city," says Thomas Bennett, Marketing and Communications Manager at Worcester Wolves.
"It promises to be another fantastic event and we look forward to seeing everyone there."
BBC Hereford & Worcester will host the evening from a stage in Cathedral Square. Entertainment will be provided by Luke Swatman, dubbed the Worcester Pavarotti; Heini Hughes, Mile Skilbeck and the Worcester Rock Choir, amongst others.
The cast of the Worcester Repertory Company Christmas Pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, will be 'Hi Ho-ing' their way in to proceedings from 5.15pm onwards, encouraging audience participation to sing along with songs from the Show.
"Come and be part of the action as Worcester celebrates the final countdown to Christmas. There's always a fantastic atmosphere and this promises to be a really fun filled uplifting occasion," says the Mayor, Cllr Allah Ditta, who will be switching on the lights at 6.00pm alongside Worcester's Carnival Queen.
White and gold coloured lights are being specially hired by the City Council to bring festive sparkle to Worcester's city centre, as the Christmas shopping season begins in earnest. Fairy lights are also being installed in trees along the High Street, creating an extra magical effect.
The event signals the start of Christmas late night shopping in Worcester city centre, with many shops staying open until 8.00pm on Thursdays
