BRRRRrrrrr... there's an undeniably crispier nip in the air as autumn turns to winter, the jingle jangle of December approaches and the shops' shelves start filling with all things glittery, gifty and Christmassy.

Marking the kick-off of the most super of the shopping sweeps of the year comes Southend's Christmas light event - the Big Switch On - taking place on Saturday November 18.

It boasts of being the "biggest and best ever" with nine hours of free fun and entertainment on the High Street and seafront, which are promised to be filled with live music and tasty treats, topped off with a fabulous firework finale!

The whole thing starts at 11am until 8pm with a packed programme taking place across the day.

Things really hot up between 2pm and 4:30pm, host Dom Atkins will introduce a wealth of local musicians to perform on the main stage at Victoria Circus. Heart Essex stars Martin and Su will then take over to introduce an amazing line-up of acts, before leading the crowd in the traditional count-down in anticipation of Southend’s famous High Street dramatically lighting up, with the mystery guest being so far kept under wraps.

As part of the excitement, BBC Essex will also be getting visitors to the High Street in the festive spirit with their own stage presenting choirs, singers and bands.

You’ll be sure to find a unique gift in the Christmas Market, with a range of beautiful gifts from local craftspeople available along the High Street. Alternatively, keep the cold out with a cheeky gluhwein or hot snack from one of the stallholders in the Farmers’ Market. There will also be plenty of producers offering all manner of delicious delights to stock up your fridges, freezers and cupboards with.

The Victoria Shopping Centre is offering its visitors free face-painting, a chance to meet the glorious Glitter Belles – imagine Seventies disco meets avant-garde fashion – and have your photo taken with super-friendly elves in the Elf Booth. Meanwhile, The Royals Shopping Centre is offering you a chance to stroke a magical, lifelike polar bear, win prizes and meet Santa himself.

Bringing the day to a spectacular close will be a dazzling firework display. The beautifully choreographed show will, for the first time this year, be set to music by those clever people at BBC Essex.

Visit visitsouthend.co.uk to find out more.