THE countdown to Christmas can finally begin tomorrow with the long awaited switching on of the town centre lights.

A packed programme of activities is planned for what promises to be a day to remember.

Each year, the Christmas lights switch-on draws crowds from across town. Throngs of people flock to Wharf Green in the hope of catching a glimpse of a star guest or to get the best view of the fireworks finale.

But the entertainment gets underway long before the evening in venues right across the centre.

A giant snow globe will be set up in Regent Circus, while Regent Street will be turned into a Fairytale Princess Zone.

A wand and sword-making workshop will be held at the Central Library, Elf Yourself activities will be laid on in the Parade and the Wyvern Theatre will be offering fairytale face painting to get the youngsters in the mood for the festive season.

As if that wasn’t enough, the official Snowman from everyone’s favourite classic Christmas animation will be on hand in Havelock Square to meet and greet families - what could be more Christmassy than a ‘Snowman selfie’?

Di Powell, chief executive of event organisers inSwindon, said: “We hope everyone can come along and stock up on presents, be entertained, take part in free family activities, and get that Christmas feeling.”

As the sun goes down and the evening closes in, the attention will shift to Wharf Green for the moment everyone will have been waiting for.

Kicking off at 5pm, star acts from near and far will take to the stage.

First up will be this year’s big name, Saara Aalto, singing Disney fairytale songs for everyone to enjoy.

Best known as last year’s X Factor runner up, Saara is also the voice of Anna in the Finnish version of hit film Frozen.

Joining Saara on the stage over the course of a packed hour of entertainment will be local boy Lewis Blissett who reached the semi-final of The Voice Kids this year.

The Old Town star said: “I’ve come to this event every year so it’s crazy to be part of it. I’m really excited to be performing in front of such a huge crowd.”