STURMINSTER Newton residents can look forward to a day packed with festive fun at this year’s Christmas lights switch on event.

Organised by the SturAction team, the switch on event is just one of more than 60 festive events and activities taking place throughout November and December as part of Make Stur Sparkle.

The Christmas lights switch on itself is taking place on November 30 at 5pm – but there’s plenty of fun to be had before that including music, dancing, singing and shopping.

Christmas shoppers can make the most of the Dorset Artisan Market (11am to 7pm) and the Christmas market at The Exchange (10am to 2pm), as well as all of the independent shops and eateries.

Attendees will be serenaded by the sounds of William Barnes School Choir at 12pm and they can enjoy some Bulgarian dancing at 4pm, as well as a performance from Vale Ukes – U3A Group.

Shoppers can enjoy free parking on November 30 as well as December 7, 14 and 21 thanks to SturAction covering the costs.

Father Christmas himself will be travelling around the town on his way to his grotto in 1855 Sturminster Newton, providing the perfect opportunity for kids to wave him on.

Children can also join him in the Lantern Parade which sets off from the Railway Garden gates at around 4.50pm for the Christmas Tree Light Switch On at 5pm.

Everyone can then continue with the parade down Church Street to St Mary’s Church for refreshments, hear the Sturminster Choral Society and be enthralled by the displays at the Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church.

To book your Father Christmas visit at 1855, either pop in or call 01258 475612.

He will be in Stur on November 30, December 7, December 14 and December 21 between 11am and 3.20pm.

A spokesperson for SturAction said: “SturAction raises funds for Sturminster Newton projects through profits provided by sales in its four shops (The Boutique, The Emporium, The Marketplace and 1855 Sturminster Newton) and has covered the costs involved in creating this popular community event.

“We are also thankful to the 18 businesses and organisations for their continued financial support for our fabulous Christmas tree lights.

“The main sponsors are Newstone House, Johnsons Stalbridge Linen Services, Grassby & Close Funeral Service, Hinton St Mary Estate, Rutters Solicitors and Root & Vine.”

There are a variety of festive events and activities taking place from now until January 1.

For the full list visit the Sturminster Newton website or keep an eye on the Facebook page.