Town centres and landmarks around Thanet will be lit up this week as the first of the isle's Christmas light switch-on events begin.

On Friday, Made in Chelsea's Sam Thompson and Love Island finalist India Reynolds will join 90s boyband 5ive for the festive extravaganza at Westwood Cross shopping centre in Broadstairs.

The event, hosted by kmfm radio presenters and including a performance by 5ive, kicks off at 4pm, with the big switch-on at 6pm, finishing at 6.30pm.

On Sunday, Ramsgate's festivities are being held with a fun-filled afternoon, including live entertainment, a land train, a snow globe and snow machine, as well as children's rides and Santa's grotto.

There will also be a Christmas fair with treats, gifts and decorations, all made locally.

Mulled wine and mince pies are on hand to keep visitors warm and the lights will be switched on at 4.30pm.

The popular Westgate Christmas event is on December 1, from 11am to 5pm and including rides, live music and a parade.

Children can meet Santa and visitors will be able to buy their Christmas tree.

The Cliftonville celebration is on December 5, and begins at 4.45pm.

There will be a magic show and choirs performing Christmas carols, along with children's favourite Simple Simon. The switch will be pulled at 5.30pm by Margate's mayor, Cllr Mick Tomlinson.

The Broadstairs Christmas light switch-on and fair, organised by the town's Chamber of Commerce, is on December 7, from midday to 5.30pm.

There will be stalls, Santa in his magical grotto, music and entertainment and the turning on of the lights at 5pm.

Birchington's is the following day, on December 8, from 11am to 5pm, in Station Road and the Square.

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