Snow will fall and lights will sparkle as Christmas officially arrives in Deal tonight.

Residents can expect plenty of festive fun and a sprinkling of snow at this year's lights switch-on plus the chance to continue the night at an after party.

Entertainment on the stage in front of St George’s Church will begin at 6pm, building up to the big switch-on at 7.30pm.

The cast of the Sgt’s Mess Pantomime and Father Christmas will mingle with crowds. Deal, Walmer and Kingsdown Regatta Court will also be in attendance.

Some town centre shops will stay open until late offering the chance to pick up festive gifts.

For the first time there will be an after party open to the public at the Landmark Centre.

Tickets cost £2 available from Smugglers Records in King Street and Mark 1 Music in Victoria Road.

The switch-on has been planned and funded by the Deal & Walmer Chamber of Trade thanks to a charity auction.

This year’s auction raised £2,020 - a thumping record by about £300.

Christmas lights celebrations in Dover and Sandwich will take place next weekend on Saturday, November 30.

Please send your pictures of the night to mercurynews@thekmgroup.co.uk

Read more: All the latest news from Deal