THE headline acts for Christmas lights switch-ons in St Helens and Earlestown will be announced tonight.

Taking place on Saturday, November 25 and Saturday, December 2 in St Helens and Earlestown respectively, the switch-on shows will feature a headline act along with a host of local talented musical performers.

There will also be an array of festive characters to greet the thousands of visitors expected to attend – while funfair rides, arts and crafts activities, face painting, reindeer and a free ice rink will add to the occasion.

Cast members from St Helens Theatre Royal’s Christmas pantomime, Aladdin, will also be among the guests.

The announcement of the headline act is expected at 6pm on Monday.

Times and venues

The St Helens town centre Christmas lights switch-on will be held in Church Square on Saturday  November 25 between noon and 6pm, followed by the Earlestown switch-on the week after on Saturday, December 2 from 1pm to 7pm.