Sheffield festive lights switch-on will have X Factor fans jumping for joy

And supporters of silver medal winning trampolinist Bryony Page will also jump for joy as she joins star-studded throng to take the stage as the city sparkles

November 20 will witness a full programme of entertainment across the community throughout the day before 5pm Peace Gardens switch-on.

Choirs, street entertainers, festive markets, craft activities, television costumed characters and fairground rides are among the attractions sure to keep all members of the family entertained before the main stage show.

Children can enjoy storytelling and crafts in the Winter Garden, go on an elf trail, meet Santa in his grotto on Fargate, ride on a fire engine from the National Emergency Services Museum, and also see the Snow Queen and Jack Frost, who have taken up residence in the Moor Market for Christmas. The Snow Queen show, by Kidology Arts, combines art, sculpture, music, sound and performance.

Entertainment begins on the main stage in the Peace Gardens at 2pm, hosted by Heart Radio’s breakfast presenters Dixie and Emma. Appearing on stage will be X Factor solo singer Gifty Louise, Sheffield-based Bryony Page – the first British woman to win an Olympic trampoline medal - Hype Dance, The Rock Choir, CBeebies’ Mr Maker and the cast of this year’s Snow White pantomime at the Lyceum Theatre.

City council cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure Coun Mary Lea said: “Christmas is a special time of year and we have plenty of festive cheer on offer for people of all ages.

“Last year thousands came out to enjoy Sheffield’s celebrations and I hope that families will come along again to enjoy this year’s Christmas light switch-on.

“But there’s much more going on aside from the switch-on event itself. There is a huge choice of seasonal goodies and unusual gifts on offer at the Christmas market and, once the shopping’s done, the Sleigh Bar on Fargate and brand new Thor’s Tipi in the Peace Gardens will give a warm and cosy welcome to all our city centre visitors.”

This year’s Christmas market runs from 10am to 6pm daily throughout November. In December, the market will also be open until 8pm each Wednesday.

As well as independent traders from across the UK and Europe selling a variety of gifts, jewellery, crafts and fresh produce, there will be refreshment stalls selling hot food and drinks, including the annual Sleigh Bar.

Those visiting the city on the three Saturdays before Christmas can take advantage of the festive free parking offer. From 2pm on Saturday 10, 17 and 24 December people can park for free in all Sheffield City Council on and off street parking spaces in the city centre and in the permit parking zones.