Ipswich’s Christmas lights are being switched on today on the Cornhill.
The lights, along with the town’s two Christmas trees - the real tree and the bauble tree - will all be lit up for the occasion.
The switch on will take place at 6.55 with the honour going to Mayor of Ipswich, Sarah Barber, her four year old nephew Olen and 91-year-old fund raiser John Morley who abseiled down Ipswich hospital this summer dressed as Spiderman.
This is the first time in a number of years that a real tree has featured in the town centre. The tree - which has come from the Elveden Forest - has been provided by Ipswich Central and is supported by the Ipswich Star.
The controversial bauble tree, which has been put up for the past few years will also be lit up on the night at its new home on the Waterfront, next to the University of Suffolk’s question mark sculpture.
As well as the two larger trees six further,smaller Christmas trees are also being put up at locations across the town, including at; Giles Circus, Westgate Street, Tavern Street outside Cotswolds, Fore Street, Buttermarket outside The Works and St Peter’s Street.
The big switch on will take place at 6.55pm with a range of entertainment, stalls and a children’s craft fair being put on in the run up.
Members of the Ipswich Regent pantomine - Jack & The Beanstalk will be taking to the stage.
Singers from the Pop Chorus group will be giving the first live performance of their charity single, Always, which is hoping to raise money for the St Elizabeth Hospice.
Stalls selling a range of gifts, hot food and sweets will also be at the event, lining the streets around Giles Circus and Queen Street.
Snow is also being promised by the Borough Council to make an appearance during the evening.
The Mayor said: “It will be a great treat to kick off the festive season in Ipswich by helping to switch on the lights. The entertainment on the Cornhill starts at 4.30pm – and we have a lot of thrills in store along with real snow.”
A spokesman from Ipswich Borough Council added: “We are expecting a big crowd, so don’t leave it to the last minute, but if you can’t make it today do come along at another time to see the town in all its festive glory.”
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