THE countdown to Christmas will begin in Newport on Saturday, November 12 when the city's lights are officially switched on.

The big switch on will come as the finale to a day of colourful, festive entertainment throughout the city centre that will feature pop favourites Union J, Heart FM Breakfast Show presenters Jagger and Woody, a host of local talent including Defying Gravity, Tobias Robertson and more alongside Santa Claus himself.

Putting the sparkle into Newport’s Christmas celebrations, there will be a spectacular stage show at the junction of Charles Street and Commercial Street starting at noon with the switch on at 5pm.

The headline act is Union J who reached the final of the X Factor in 2012, before signing a record deal with Sony and reaching number six on the UK Albums Chart with their first album, followed by a host of hit singles.

Newport’s Mayor, Councillor David Atwell, Mayoress Carole Atwell, and the Leader of the Council Debbie Wilcox, plus players from Newport Gwent Dragons will switch on the Christmas Lights.

There will be a real buzz throughout the city centre from Commercial St, through High St, Friars Walk and along the riverfront, with a funfair, costume characters, Santa’s Grotto, face painter, pet farm and more.

The festivities are produced this year by Newport Now, the business-led body which supports and promotes the city centre.

Newport Now chairman Alan Edwards said: “We’re working in close collaboration with Newport Council, Newport Norse and Friars Walk on this year’s countdown to Christmas, to make sure the people of Newport get the festivities off to the best possible start by creating a real spirit of Christmas in the heart of the city.”

Councillor Debbie Wilcox, Leader of Newport City Council, said: “We hope people will join us for what promises to be a great start to a fabulous festive season in the city.

“We will also be marking the first anniversary of Friars Walk which complements both existing and new business in the wider city centre.

"Come along on November 12 for a fun, family evening and then support all our local businesses by buying your presents and food in the run-up to the big day.”

Friars Walk will be celebrating their first anniversary on November 12, combining a day of family fun with the start of Christmas celebrations.

They will be hosting top class street entertainment, including the wonderful Bjorn the Bear, and comic capers courtesy of festive grannies on scooters and some rather mischievous elves.

Youngsters can get hands-on and creative throughout the afternoon, indulging in new interactive arts installations as well as sports activities courtesy of Newport Gwent Dragons and their community team. There is a chance to meet some of their players, get your photo taken and be in with a chance of winning some match tickets.

Add a sprinkling of music and a dash of fireworks, and you have the perfect start to the Christmas season.