A CITY is preparing for its official Christmas lights switch-on - a week after playing host to the Lumiere festival.

Durham Business Improvement District (Durham BID) has announced that this year’s display will take place in the Market Place, at 5.30pm on Sunday November 26.

This year’s theme will feature a very special snowman spreading Christmas cheer across the city with Alfie Joey, BBC Radio’s breakfast show presenter on hand to narrate its story.

The switch-on will showcase many performances produced by AH Events, including acrobatics, pyrotechnics and live music.

Adam Deathe, business engagement manager at Durham BID, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on in Durham is a firm family favourite and marks the start of the festive season for many people across the city.

“Each year we strive to make the experience bigger and better than the one before, and this year is no exception. I don’t want to give too much away and spoil the element of surprise for people planning on coming along to the Christmas lights switch-on, but what I will say is that this performance is our most ambitious yet.”

Alongside all of the illumination in the city, November sees the arrival of the Christmas Digital Trail across Durham.

Six special posters have been positioned across the City allowing people to download an app. The user will then be able to take a photograph of the poster featuring a special code. A scene will then come to life providing fun for all of the family.

Mr Deathe added: “It’s the perfect reason to gather your family, wrap up warm and snuggle together in the Market Place as we ring in Christmas across the City. A brilliant way to kick-off your family festivities this year and what better reason to spend some time in Durham this Christmas too.”

For more information about the Christmas InDurham programme, visit: http://www.durhambid.co.uk/events