It might feel like summer was only yesterday, but it is time for Southend’s huge Christmas lights switch-on.

Today, the town centre will come alive with festive fun culminating in a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the seafront and town centre, organised by Southend Business Improvement District.

A huge 40ft Christmas tree takes pride of place for the event, which attracts many thousands of people.

So what’s happening?

n On the main stage at Victoria Circus, from 1pm to 6pm, local artists will perform, compered by Dom Atkins

n From 4.30pm, there will be an amazing line-up of acts, including the switch-on at 6pm by a few special guests

n Visit Southend stage at Royal Square will be up and running between 12pm to 8pm. BBC Essex will be hosting a fun packed day for the whole family, with performances from incredible choirs, singers and musicians

n From 11am to 4pm, both the Royals and Victoria shopping centres will be hosting a day full of fun arts and crafts activities to get you in the Christmas spirit. Head to the Royals to meet the magical life-sized snow lion and red Queen

n 7.30pm - Grand fireworks finale: BBC Essex will be counting down to the grand seafront fireworks finale of this year’s Big Switch-On.

The event will see former Heart Essex DJs Martin and Su reunited for the first time after their radio show was axed six months ago.

The pair will be joined by a number of celebrities for Southend’s Christmas lights Big Switch On.

Martin Day and Su Harrison hosted their breakfast show on Heart Essex for almost 20 years before their tenure ended in May.

Joining Martin and Su will be EastEnders’ Ricky Champ, who plays Stuart Highway, who first shot to fame in Game of Thrones, along with The Voice sensation, Leigh’s own Sarah Tucker.

Suzanne Gloyne, Southend BID Manager, said: “This year’s Big Switch On is going to be fantastic.

“As well as a brilliant line-up of talented singers and entertainers, we have the jaw-dropping fireworks, the festive lights and, of course, our famous snow machine. Don’t forget all this is completely free.

“That means you can spend more shopping in the High Street market or the terrific choice of shops, department stores and little boutiques in and around the town centre.”

She manager added: “If you find that you’ve truly shopped ‘til you dropped, Southend’s fabulous bars, cafes, pubs and restaurants are ideally located nearby to offer you the perfect pick-me-up, or make it even more of a special occasion with dinner out with your family and friends. The Big Switch On is a wonderful way to come and experience the fun capital of Essex.”

Southend BID’s Big Switch On is run in partnership with Caddies, Energie Fitness, the Royals Shopping Centre, Southend Adult Community College and the Victoria Shopping Centre.

For more information, click on www.visitsouthend.co.uk/christmas, like the Facebook page VisitSouthendonSea or follow @VisitSouthend on Twitter.