FRIDAY November 22 marks the big 2013 double Christmas light switch on in Basingstoke.

Festivities begin first in The Malls where there will be stilt walkers and balloon giveaways adding extra cheer from 3pm until 6.30pm. The lights will be switched on at 6pm.

In Festival Place, head to Festival Square from 5pm and join popular boyband Concept plus a whole host of exciting Christmas characters, to celebrate the turning on of the Christmas lights there.

Britain’s Got Talent stars Lauren Thalia and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett will also be performing live and there will be a dazzling firework finale from 6pm. Get in the Christmas spirit with the fun and interactive Santa Parade.

Join Festival Place at midday on Sunday December 1 to watch Santa and his festive friends as they parade through the shopping centre. Bring the kids down and watch the smiles on their faces as Christmas is brought to life, welcoming Santa and his helpers back for another magical season in town.

Santa’s grotto has fir trees, a train ride and snow. Visits cost £4.50 per child and include a train ride, a visit to Santa to tell him those Christmas wishes, an early Christmas gift, a letter from Santa and a photo opportunity.

On Sunday, November 24 between 11am and 4.30pm, the ever-popular Cairngorm Reindeer will return to The Malls. There will be giveaways and a variety of roaming entertainment, and Father Christmas and Mother Christmas will both be on hand to receive your letters.

Other Christmas dates for the diary

Friday, November 29, 10am to 4.30pm. Christmas Charity Day in The Malls in aid of St. Michael's Hospice. Try the Teddy Tombola, enter the St Michael's Hospice Grand Christmas Raffle Draw and enjoy Carols with the Kempshott Junior School's Glee Choir.

Saturday, November 30, 10am until 2pm. Salvation Army Carols around the Tree in The Malls.

Sunday, December 8, 6.30pm. Light Up a Life Event. St Michael's Remembrance Concert in Castle Square.

December 14-15, 21-22, 10am until 4pm. Sandhurst Silver Band. Festive music and entertainers in The Malls.

December 21-22, 12pm - Gingerbread Workshops on the Upper Level of Festival Place. Make your own festive Gingerbread Man or take a masterclass in how to create the perfect Gingerbread House. Drop in sessions. Discretionary donation to Shopmobility welcomed.