FESTIVE cheer is set to fill Southend High Street for the return of the “Christmas light switch-on extravaganza”.

Organisers have confirmed there will be a packed day of events in the city centre on November 19, kicking off at midday until the switch-on in the evening.

Southend’s beloved Music Man Project will be performing live, with flamenco dancers, and a steel drum band will also descend on the high street.

To keep the kids entertained, there will be a children’s fun trail called “Come as yourself, leave as an elf” which will see youngsters don fancy dress costumes.

It will end with the twinkling lights being turned on and the last seafront fireworks display of the season.

Last year, due to Covid restrictions, 12 smaller Christmas events took place but families are over the moon to see the return of the big switch-on event.

Mum-of-three, Kimberley O’Connell, 47, from Eastwood said: “I will definitely be going with my youngest son, I think anything like this to get us into the spirit and get people feeling positive is a good thing.

“After the year we’ve had and the tough times ahead we all need something to put a smile on our faces.

“It sounds like a great event and it will also help to get more people in the High Street which could help the shops out too.”

Westcliff resident Adam Ball, 47, added: “I think it’s more than likely I will be going down there, it sounds nice and vibrant.

“It will be great to see the Music Man Project as the group is fantastic and it’ll be good to have the switch-on back after it was cancelled for a few years and it has been missed.

“It sounds like a great day so I am sure lots of people are looking forward to it.”

The event is being organised by the Southend Business Improvement District.

Bid manager, Suzanne Gloyne, said: “We know this will be a popular and enjoyable day, bringing locals and visitors alike together as we celebrate our city being beautifully decorated for Christmas.”