Christmas cheer will be making its way to the three main towns in Waveney this weekend as the festive lights are switched on

It begins in Beccles tonight with an evening of music, late night shopping and the official switch on of the Christmas lights.

The countdown begins at 5.45pm and at 6pm the mayor of Beccles will turn the lights on with special guests.

There will be fair rides, live entertainment, hot and cold food, open shops and free parking from 4pm in all Waveney District Council car parks.

Santa will also have his grotto in St Michael’s Church tower during the evening.

During the night the winner of the best Christmas window in the town will be announced.

Directly after the town lights are turned on at 6.15pm, more than 50 trees decorated by a variety of schools, groups, clubs and organisations will be lit up inside Hungate Church as part of the Christmas Tree Festival.

There will be an opportunity to vote for your favourite adult tree and the best by young people. The Stable Tableau with life size nativity figures will be on display and the Stable Cafe will be open all weekend serving drinks, light refreshments and lunches.

The festival is open tonight from 6.15pm until 9.30pm; tomorrow from 9.30am until 4.30pm; and on Sunday from noon to 5pm. Admission is £2 with children free.

The Christmas celebrations begin in Bungay tomorrow at 3.45pm with the 30-strong Breckland Brass Band, who will play a concert at St Mary’s Church.

Following the first half of the concert, those attending will be invited to adjourn outside to witness the ceremony when the star on the church and the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on.

Mince pies and mulled wine will be served back in the church, before the band continues with the second half of the concert that finishes at 6pm.

Admission to the event is free and has been arranged by the Bungay Chamber of Trade and the Friends of St Mary’s.

Over in Halesworth people will also be getting into the festive spirit tomorrow.

With attractions and stalls on offer from 4.15pm to 8pm, a parade will be led by the Southwold and Reydon Corps of Drums and St Mary’s Church will be decorated.

Live bands will play in the Market Place and there will be an outside bar.