What time will Manchester’s Christmas 2017 lights be switched on in Albert Square and who’s performing?
MARKING the launch of the official countdown to Christmas, over the next few weeks city centres and high streets will be illuminated with beautiful displays of festive lights.
Manchester is no exception, with crowds turning out in force year after year to enjoy the spectacle as the streets are lit up with yuletide cheer. We've got all the details about this year's event...
Where and when will Manchester's Christmas lights be switched on?
Manchester will be celebrating the beginning of Christmas on Saturday, November 4.
The show will start at 7.30pm but to get a good a spot it's advisable you get down a bit earlier.
There will be performances on the night followed by the epic turning-on of the lights and the show will be topped off with a stunning ten minute fireworks display.
As with every year, the city will be illuminated from the city's famous Albert Square, right in the heart of Manchester, by the town hall.
Who will be performing?
Aside from being joined by their classic giant Santa, the show will welcome a number of celebrities.
This year DJ Sigala will headline the show, performing for the grand "switch-on".
It's the first year a DJ has been asked to front the line-up and he will be joined by Strictly star and Mama Do singer Pixie Lott.
Also on stage will be boy-band Yes Lad who featured on the X Factor last year but just missed out on a place on the live shows as Louis sent them packing at judges houses.
But the fun doesn't stop there, as there will also be a performance from the cast of ELF: The Musical complete with a real-life reindeer.
There'll also be a dance performance from Street Dance at The Dancehouse and some Christmas tunes from the cast of Little Women at Hope Mill Theatre in Ancoats.
The master of ceremonies for the evening will be Key 103’s breakfast hosts Mike Toolan and Matt Haslam and pretty Coronation Street star Brooke Vincent.
