The air will be filled with bright lights, music and fireworks tonight for Stevenage’s Christmas lights switch on party.

The show opens at 4pm with Reese Robinson belting a string of hits. Also in the line-up is singer Max Keir, Roxy Searle and Stevenage’s very own Britain’s Got Talent finalist Gabz.

Dancers from Warriorz Performing Arts Academy will be showcasing their moves and The Enlights, a trio from London, will get the toes tapping with a medley of Motown hits and Christmas classics.

Father Christmas and his sleigh will be giving out sweets and posing for pictures next to the Christmas tree. He will be joined by characters from 360 Play Twizzle and Twirl, who will be handing out a free child ticket to every child in the queue to enjoy a day at the children’s entertainment centre in Stevenage Leisure Park.

There will also be face painting between 4pm and 8pm in the coffee shop at the Gordon Craig Theatre.

This year’s Christmas panto at the Gordon Craig Theatre stars Aidan O’Neill as Wishee Washee and Shaun Williamson from Eastenders and Extras as Abanazaar. All three will be entertaining crowds on the night before the big switch on at 6.30pm. There will be an special guest joining the cast too!

For fans of the Disney film Frozen, Elsa will perform the well-known hit ‘Let It Go’ on stage before she is joined by her sister Anna and Snowman Olaf, plus the winner of children’s competition, six-year-old Erin Lang, will help press the plunger to light up the town and set off the spectacular firework display to mark the start of Christmas.

The evening will also feature balloons, giveaways, fairground rides, firework display, festive stalls selling hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, popcorn and candy floss and the chance to win prizes, including an iPad Mini.

Parking in town centre car parks is free after 4pm and the event is in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support which helps many people and their families at Lister Hospital cope after diagnosis.

A dedicated disabled area is available. Spaces are limited and will be reserved on a first come first served basis. To book email tcm@stevenagetowncentre.co.uk or call 01438 740884.