X Factor and Olympic stars to light-up Christmas

A full programme of entertainment will take place across the city on Sunday, before the lights are switched on in the Peace Gardens at 5pm.

Choirs, street entertainers, Christmas markets, craft activities, television costumed characters and fairground rides are among the attractions throughout the day.

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 in the Moor Market for Christmas.

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.

Coun Mary Lea, cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure at Sheffield Council, said: “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.”