Full line up for Derby's Christmas lights switch-on has been announced

The full programme for Derby's Christmas lights has been announced and it includes live music, professional ice skaters and much more to get visitors in the festive mood.

From 4pm there will be live music and family entertainment, ahead of the switch-on at 5.45pm on Saturday, November 30. However if you fancy heading down to Cathedral Green before the festivities start you will be able to hit the ice on the Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink (booking required) or watch a performance from professional skaters on the day.

There will also be an array of food available from authentic German sausages to Yorkshire pudding wraps, loaded fries as well as donuts and crepes.

There will be a performance from AVP Theatre at 11am in the Nordic Bar, followed by a mixture of songs by the choir Sing for your Supper at 2pm and a performance from the musician Emzae at 3pm.

Furthermore some family friendly characters will be patrolling the streets throughout Cathedral Green, including the cheeky elves, grumpy Grinch, gingerbread men, as well as the Ice King and Queen.

The event will be hosted by Smooth Radio presenters Gareth Evans and Emma Caldwell. Additionally there will also be a choir performance on Corporation Street outside the Council House by the group The Invisible Friends, a charity that raises awareness for invisible disabilities.

In addition to these performances there will also be live music from the rock/alternative band The Public Eye, as well as Cassette Roulette who will be playing a "perfect mix of old favourites and modern classics".

The coveted lantern parade will be kicking off at 4pm from St Peter's Church. This year's theme will be 'Nature-World of Flowers', which derives from the "Derby Season of Light of climate action". The parade will feature children, young people, families and schools lighting up the streets with floral lanterns. They'll be joined by two illuminated stilt walkers.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, said: “We’re so excited to kick off Derby’s festive celebrations with our Christmas Lights Switch-On. There’ll be so much to see and do in the city centre, and don’t miss the fantastic stage show before the big switch-on."

Following the switch on the Nordic Bar will be open to the public with Cassette Roulette performing live music from 7.30pm.