START the festive season with a bang at the Northwich Christmas Extravaganza this weekend.

The annual event, organised by Northwich Town Council and the Northwich BID, returns to the town centre on Saturday, November 24, packed full of family entertainment.

Santa himself will be paying a visit along with his reindeer, and the first Christmas Bauble Trail takes place in partnership with town centre traders.

From noon to 5pm there will be plenty on offer, culminating in a firework display and Christmas lights switch-on as the sun goes down near the library in Witton Street.

BID manager Jane Hough said: “We’ve been planning the event for months and we’re all excited that the day is nearly here.

"Along with our partners, we have worked hard to deliver a range of activities for people of all ages and we’re pleased with what’s been organised. You should definitely come and check it out if you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

“People should take some time to explore our amazing businesses too, especially if they’re on the lookout for gifts for friends and family.

"We’ve got a brilliant array of retailers and traders here in Northwich and they need our support.”

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Northwich Town Council clerk Chris Shaw added: “With fun, entertainment and festive surprises at every turn, this year’s Christmas Extravaganza could go one better than last year’s.

"I can’t wait to see the streets packed with visitors embracing the season of goodwill – we’re keeping our fingers crossed for good weather!”

As well as a Christmas market featuring craft and food stalls from noon to 5pm, there will be various activities on offer throughout the afternoon at Barons Quay, Leicester Street, High Street and Pocket Park.

School choirs and the Bostock Band will be playing outside Waitrose at Hayhurst Quay from 1pm to 4pm, with the school lantern parade starting from the supermarket at 4.40pm.

Barnton Circus performers will be showcasing their talents near H&M from noon to 4pm, while a balloon nativity and outdoor pizza are among the offerings at the same time near Marks and Spencer.

The Christmas Express Train will be running until 4pm at Barons Quay, while Santa’s Grotto is open until 6pm in Witton Street.

In High Street, you can try your hand at crafts including face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling and gingerbread making, with fairground rides also running.

The Christmas Bauble Trail, in partnership with 12 town centre businesses and the Cheshire Downs Syndrome Support Group, will be offering a chocolatey reward.