The festive season is upon us and the countdown to Maidstone's Christmas light switch on has officially begun.

Crowds will flock to Jubilee Square in less than four hours to see the town light up.

A stage is already in place for tonight's event at 6.30pm as well as a glittery stand ready for the big reveal.

Fremlin Walk is hosting range of activities throughout the afternoon including an Elfie Station

Children are able to dress up as their best elf, while there will also be stilt walking nut crackers and festive flower girls.

The Lindy Hoppers are dancing in the shopping centre

Hollyoaks' actor Jack Quickenden will help turn on the lights and will perform a song, as will pupils from Molehill Primary Academy later on.

Jake will be on stage with the cast from the Hazlitt Theatre's pantomime of Beauty and the Beast as well.

Garry and Laura are on stage from 5pm to start the countdown.

Kent Online will be covering the light switch on later this evening so stay tuned for more information and to see some fantastic photos

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone