CHRISTMAS is coming – and this year it will be taking over St Giles in Oxford.

For the first time the city’s Christmas Light Night celebration, including the festive lights switch-on, will be held in the historic street.

A host of activities will be taking place on Friday, December 2, with a lantern procession led by schoolchildren taking centre stage. The event attracts more than 20,000 people.

Event manager Ian Nolan said: “The event has grown in size over the last three or four years and it’s getting bigger and more popular. Last year it attracted something like 20,000 people and we are expecting a similar number this year, which is why we have moved it to St Giles, so there is more space for everyone.”

Previously, the main activities were held in Broad Street and Bonn Square.

It is understood to be the only time the busy thoroughfare is closed apart from the annual St Giles Fair in September.

With part of the road owned by six different Oxford University colleges, all had to sign up to allow the event to take place before it could be given the go-ahead.

Mr Nolan said: “It’s going to be very Christmassy. There will be some great performances, lot of really nice market stalls for stocking fillers and treats and the lantern parade.”

The festivities are organised by Oxford City Council, Oxford Inspires and Ian Nolan Events. The BMW Mini Plant is providing funding for artist-led workshops for 300 schoolchildren to create lanterns around the theme of the 12 Days of Christmas, and 400 people will be taking part in the procession.

There will also be late-night openings of some of the city’s cultural venues.

Activities start at 5pm, with the lantern procession beginning and ending at the Old Fire Station in Gloucester Green, starting at 6.15pm. The lights will be switched on in St Giles at about 6.30pm.

Oxford Inspires director Kathelene Weiss said: “The organisers work closely with dozens of cultural organisations, performers, artists, community groups and dance groups in order to deliver a magical evening that celebrates the richness of local arts and culture.”

City council events officer Rachel Capell said: “Moving the event to St Giles will mean that many more people can attend and enjoy the procession as it weaves through the streets of Oxford.”

Organisers are seeking producers of everything from chutney to micro-breweries and handmade treats to run stalls at the event. Anyone interested should e-mail kiera@iannolanevents.com by Friday, November 4.