Wolverhampton Christmas lights switch-on boasts celebrities, late night shopping and free parking

The action begins at 5pm on Wednesday, November 23, in Queen Square with the Free Radio roadshow.

Then the city's Mayor, CBeebies character Boj, Wolves FC players and Doreen – star of this year's Grand Theatre pantomime Aladdin – will join Father Christmas to switch on the lights at 6.30pm followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

Why not come along early to seek out some fabulous Christmas gifts and goodies at the Festive Market, taking place on Dudley Street from 10am to 8pm and featuring over 35 stalls packed full of Yuletide treats.

Meet Santa at his Magical Ice Palace

Father Christmas will be making a special stop off in the city centre on the day of the Christmas Lights Switch On (November 23). He'll be in his Ice Palace at the Mander Centre from 4pm to 8pm ready to hear what all of Wolverhampton's visitors would like this year.

But don't worry if you can't make it on that day – Santa and his helpers will be returning to the Ice Palace from December 1 to 23, from 10am to 5pm every day (10am to 6pm on Wednesdays, 11am to 4pm on Sundays). It's just £3.50 per visit so there's no reason not to come along and meet the man himself.

There's something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas in Wolverhampton with a fabulous range of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.

Late night shopping starts on November 23 with shops in the city centre open until 8pm every Wednesday until Christmas.

For the early birds among you, there's a chance to get your shopping done early and enjoy free parking right in the heart of the city.

The City Council are offering free Christmas parking at Fold Street Car Park from 12 noon on late night shopping Wednesdays, starting from November 23 and including November 30, December 7, 14 and 21. Fold Street will also be free all day on Sundays throughout December.

And the Wulfrun Centre Car Park will be free on Sunday November 20 thanks to NCP.

This means you can spend longer in the city centre searching for the perfect presents for your loved ones, and why not make a day of it by treating yourself to lunch in one of our fantastic eateries such as The Sunbeam, Zorbas, The Bilash, Johnny Spice or Rocco.

Visit www.enjoywolverhampton.com for more information about all the city has to offer or follow the Facebook page for regular updates.