Derry is planning to light up Ireland's tallest Christmas tree this weekend to kick off the festive season.
After a virtual Christmas lights switch-on last year, all the stops have been pulled out to make this year's events better than ever.
This includes a brand-new 60-foot tree in front of the Guildhall, with several other 40-foot trees dotted across Derry and Strabane, including in Waterloo Place and Ebrington Square.
Here is everything you need to know for Derry's Christmas lights switch-on:
The Christmas lights switch-on will be taking place this Sunday, November 21, from 6pm.
Before the lights are illuminated, the city is being treated to a Christmas procession through the streets led by Santa himself, starting at 6pm.
The procession will begin in Bishop Street and travel through The Diamond, Ferryquay Street, Newmarket Street, Orchard Street, Foyle Street and the Foyle Embankment, around the City Hotel Roundabout to the Strand Road, Waterloo Place and finishes in Custom House Street.
From here, Ireland's largest Christmas tree will be illuminated.
With an extensive route for this Christmas procession, there will be plenty of opportunities for families to see Santa while also keeping themselves safe and socially distanced.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Graham Warke, will take part in the parade which will light up the city centre as it passes through.
He will be joined by a number of festive characters and beautiful bespoke Christmas themed mobile installations.
He said: “I am really excited to take part in the parade and see our beautiful city lit up for the first time this festive season.
“The route is extended around the city centre so that everyone will have their opportunity to see Santa and the characters and you can pick your viewing spot along the route rather than gathering in one place.
“After last year’s virtual programme, it is particularly pleasing to allow people to attend the switch-on in person again and Council’s maintenance and electrical teams have been working hard this week to ensure the city is looking resplendent on Sunday evening.”
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