The countdown to Christmas truly gets under way this week as the first festive lights are switched on.

Bluewater gets in first with its celebrations this evening (Thursday) but there are plenty more to choose from in the coming weeks.

The Christmas Light Night will feature a free spectacular firework display and special guests Paddington and Santa will also be putting in an appearance.

Gates open at 5pm, with the fireworks at 6.30pm.

The shopping centre will also transform into a winter wonderland with new attractions and returning favourites and extended shopping to 10pm.

One week later, Bluewater will unveil its new outdoor ice rink, featuring a giant Christmas tree and hot drinks and seasonal refreshments available from Alpine-style cabins.

Gravesend: Next Friday, November 18, at St George’s Shopping Centre there will be an evening of entertainment from 4pm to 6pm.

Street entertainers will include Christmas Mime Elves, Santa and his helpers on stilts, Kent Samba band Bloco Fogo, the Crocodile Christmas Brass Band and much more.

At 5pm, there is a parade which will feature 10 schools, with around 500 children.

Organised in partnership by Cohesion Plus and Gravesham council, they will wind their way through New Road, up Windmill Street and onto Community Square with the bands and performers.

The mayor, Cllr Greta Goatley will be joined by a fire bird at the front of the parade and there is a promise of snow too.

At 5.30pm at Community Square, the lights will officially be switched on by the mayor, followed by half an hour of entertainment. This will include a Jack and the Beanstalk panto stage, where the cast of this year’s show will amuse crowds.

Dartford: On Saturday, November 19, from 2.15pm to 5.30pm, there will be family entertainment at the big Christmas Switch-On in Dartford High Street.

Kicking things off is entertainer Adam Hoffman, plus appearances from singer Chris Till, the Gruffalo and Dartford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society.

Music from the Little Mix Experience, Freddie, The Wedding Singer and SKAbretta will also be on throughout the day.

Rory the Lion and Father Christmas will also be on hand.

At 5pm, panto stars including Joe Pasquale will appear ahead of the mayor.

The winner of the Dartford Christmas colouring competition gets to switch on the lights at 5.20pm.

Stone: The Stone Parish Christmas Lights Switch-on will be at Stone Pavilion on Saturday, November 26, from 4pm to 7pm.

Featuring a host of entertainment and activities, including headline act Glenn Owen as Bruno Mars, St Mary’s Church Choir, Christmas market, funfair rides, arts and crafts, mulled wine, hot food and refreshments.

The ever popular Santa’s Grotto is still only £1 per child, with every child receiving a gift. Visit www.stoneparishcouncil.com/shop/ to book your place.

There are still a few market pitches available for at £10 – call 01322 384400 or email bookings@stoneparishcouncil.com