Christmas lights will soon start to sparkle across Dudley as the borough prepares to welcome the festive season in style.

Halesowen will be the first borough town to host their Christmas lights switch-on event on Saturday 19 November, running from 9am to 5.30pm.

Visitors can pick up some early presents at a Christmas market and enjoy some tasty festive food, while fairground rides are available to entertain the kids.

On the big stage, live entertainment will take place throughout the day. ITV News Central weather presenter Des Coleman will have the honour of pressing the big red button to light up the town centre.

Festive fun can also be found at Lifecentral Church, which will host two converted buses with soft play facilities, a full nail bar and gaming lounge. Market stalls, competitions, free crafts, a photo booth and refreshments are also on offer at the church.

Free parking in Halesowen will be available on the day at council-operated car parks on Andrew Road, Birmingham Street and Pool Road. Councillor Sue Greenaway, the Mayor of Dudley, said:

“After a busy year, I’m looking forward to the borough coming together to celebrate the festive season at our Christmas lights switch-on events.

“I hope residents will come along, enjoy the wonderful entertainment on offer and show their support for our hard-working town centre traders.”

On Sunday 20 November, Sedgley will host its Christmas lights switch-on event from 4pm to 7pm, featuring a stage with live entertainment and a festive market.

Head to Stourbridge town centre on Saturday 26 November from 9am to 5.30pm to enjoy a market, food and fairground rides, as well as live entertainment on the main stage.

The Grinch will be making mischief in the Ryemarket shopping centre from noon and kids can help the loveable festive villain to discover his Christmas cheer before he switches on the lights later in the day.

As Advent calendars start to be opened and the final countdown to Christmas Day begins, both Dudley and Brierley Hill will be lighting up their decorations on Saturday 3 December. Both events will feature live entertainment, Christmas markets and pantomimes.

Free car parking will also be available on Dudley Council operated car parks at the events in Stourbridge, Dudley and Brierley Hill. For the locations of these car parks, visit the MyDudley car parking page.