The switching on of Christmas lights in both Blackburn and Darwen will launch the borough’s festive period with a host of seasonal activities planned.

Blackburn switch on

The big switch on in Blackburn will see 2010 X Factor winner Matt Cardle flicking the switch in the town centre on Thursday, November 21. Other acts include Re-Connected, John Jo from the X Factor, and Giles Potter amongst other fantastic acts, including some local performers.

The event, taking place on King William Street from 5pm-7pm, will see a show packed full of performances as well as a fantastic fireworks display.

The switch on, which will be hosted this year by Rock FM, will also include several other acts who will be performing on the stage outside Blackburn Town Hall. Nickelodeon’s Poppy Cat will also be joined by several other fun children’s characters.

Darwen switch on

In Darwen, head down to the big  'Light Night' switch-on  on  Saturday,  November 23 in the market square, where a ‘Talent Show Special’ will see a host of past and present X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent stars, including Kitty Brucknell, Mr Zip (Where me keys, where me phone) and a host of other acts, alongside fun children’s characters. Members of Blackburn Youth Zone will also be performing a dance and light show.

The switch on event, which takes between 4pm-6.30pm, will be hosted by Rock FM and is set to be truly spectacular, with a big light show and fireworks display.

Prior to the switch on, the town’s annual Donkey Parade will take place between 3-4pm with a chance to meet characters from around 1.30pm.