There's less than one week to go until one of Maldon's biggest events of the year - Light Up Maldon!

On Thursday, November 28 from 5pm to 9pm, this unmissable festive event will be offering a night of entertainment - beginning with the much-anticipated Christmas Light Switch-on. 

Charming street stalls from traders, community groups and local charities are expected to line the High Street, as well as plenty of food and beverage options.

Indoor craft stalls and markets will also be available in The Town Hall, The Swan Hotel Bar & Grill's Cygnet Room, All Saints Church, The Maeldune Centre, and Moot Hall.

And in case that wasn't festive enough, the traditional Santa's Grotto will also be making a return!

Chuck on your coat and pop on your bobble hat - and head out to join in on the festive fun. Here's what to expect:

Entertainment Schedule

Main Stage Highlights

• 6:00pm: Join the Mayor and special guests for the highly anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On. 

• 6:15pm: The Big Sing: A community sing-along to get you in the festive spirit.

 • 7:00pm - 8:00pm: Elvis Special, starring the talented Michael Glaysher. 

• 8:00pm - 8:30pm: A performance by Maldon & District Dramatics Society (MADDS). The stage will be located on the High Street, at its junction with Market Hill.

Additional Entertainment: 

• 4:30pm - 5:30pm: Festive carols performed by Plume School students, at Maldon Library, White Horse Lane. 

• 5:15pm onwards: A variety of school choirs and the Maldon Youth Orchestra, in Maldon Town Hall, Market Hill. 

• 5:00pm - 8:30pm: Maldon Community SDA Choir (by the Town Sign, West Square at Gate Street/London Road) 

• 8:00pm – 9:00pm: Flying Blind are playing from The Swan Hotel Bar & Grill Balcony, High Street. 

• 6:00pm: Performances from The Maldon Green Jackets & Dark Horse Morris Dancers at The Hythe. 

• 6:00pm – 9:00pm: Musician Rick Crawford at the Mighty Oak Tap Room, High Street. 

• 6:00pm-7:30pm: The Salvation Army Band at Edwards Brights Close and Maldon Books. 

• Various times: Performances from The Maldon Green Jackets & Dark Horse Morris Dancers along the High Street. 

Cllr Andrew Lay, Maldon Town Mayor, said: "We're thrilled to be bringing Light Up Maldon to the Town. It's a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy the festive spirit. We have a fantastic line-up of entertainment planned, and we can't wait to see you there!"

So, gather your family and friends and join us for an unforgettable evening of festive fun. Let's hope the Maldon Grinch doesn't cause havoc! 

All timings are approximate and subject to change. For further information, please call Maldon Town Council on 01621 857373.