Epsom and Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) said there would be "sled loads" of fun when Epsom officially turns on its Christmas lights next week.

The Christmas Lights Switch On in Epsom is taking place at the Market Place on Thursday, November 28 from 4pm.

A 30-foot tall Norwegian spruce near the clock tower will form the centrepiece of this year's festivities, with a host of activities billed for the event.

"This year, we're going to dance, dance, dance!" a spokesperson for EEBC said, highlighting booked dancers including those from Terri-Jayne’s school of Dance, Ambition School of Dance and Surrey Dance Addicts among many others.

"There will be sled-loads of festive fun with rides, seasonal food and drink and characters to meet before the Christmas lights adorning a magnificent 30 foot tall Norwegian spruce are turned on to mark the start of the festive season.

"The (real) Father Christmas always makes time to attend the annual event before he gets really busy at the North Pole because all Epsom and Ewell children are very special," EEBC added.

Meanwhile, chosen charity Epsom and Ewell Foodbank will be the focus of a festive raffle that's also being supported by Specsavers on Epsom High Street.

Funds raised by the raffle would go directly to the foodbank, EEBC said.

The big Lights Switch On at Epsom Town Square next week is one of a number of special festive events in the immediate calender that the council are helping promote.

Others highlighted by the council include:

  • Ashley Centre Christmas light switch on - Saturday November 23
  • Epsom Square Lights - Wednesday November 27 from 5pm (Epsom Square)
  • Go Christmas – Thursday November 28 from 4pm (Epsom Market Place)
  • Frozen Night - Friday November 29, (Epsom’s Upper High Street)
  • Lights on Broadway Friday November 29, 4pm-8pm (Stoneleigh Broadway)