The streets of High Wycombe will light up for the festive season next month as High Wycombe BID company announce details for this year’s Christmas Light Festival.

The event, which is organised by HWBIDCo on behalf of local businesses, is one of the biggest in the town’s annual events calendar and will officially start on Thursday, November 21.

The festive cheer will begin from 12pm on the day with a traditional arts and craft market, before the arrival of Santa and his reindeer at 3.30pm in Church Street.

Visitors and residents will be treated to food and drink, fairground rides, street entertainment and a traditional parade through the town centre.

Visitors will also be able to win prizes by helping the little one’s hunt for naughty elves hidden around town centre shops. There will also be a selection of fabulous festive talent on show in the High Street with live music and performances on stage from 5pm, before the official countdown to the lights switch on at 6.45pm.

Last year’s festivities saw thousands of people flock to the High Street and Frogmoor to enjoy live music and festive treats, and organisers hope this year’s event will be as popular.

HWBIDCo manager Melanie Williams said: “This year’s Christmas festivities are designed to include more than just the switch-on itself. They’ll also be a myriad of exciting activities across the town centre throughout the entire festive period.

"Christmas is a key trading time for businesses and all the activities on offer are aimed at encouraging visitors to shop locally. We’re also introducing a new town centre map and a fun elf trail. The map aims to help visitors explore the town centre and encourage them to visit some of our unique independent retailers and find original gift ideas for friends and families this Christmas.”

This year’s Light Festival is just one part of HWBIDCo’s larger Christmas campaign, which is set to run throughout November and December.

The BID, who are responsible for organising some of the town’s biggest events such as FrogFest and Desborough Carnival, aim to showcase everything the town has to offer this holiday season – from pop-ups and competitions to surprise events and festive discounts.

For more information on The Christmas Light Festival or events happening across the town centre this festive season, visit www.christmasinhighwycombe.com or follow @HWBIDCo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.