Oldham's Christmas lights will be switched on in Parliament Square on Saturday 14 November, at the end of a free day of family entertainment across the town centre.

The switch-on is part of the town's programme as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2026, and the council says the day is intended to show off Oldham's culture, creativity and community spirit.

Things get going at Spindles from 1pm, with activities run by the Spindles Kids Club and appearances by Peppa Pig outside Next on the ground floor. Families can say hello and take photos at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

Craft activities near Vision Express and face painting near the YMCA charity shop run from 12pm to 4pm.

The main Switch-On Show starts at Parliament Square from 5.30pm. Father Christmas, Peppa Pig's Dance Party, Oldham Rock Choir and Fierce Dance are all on the bill.

The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Pam Byrne, will attend, and a local school child who won a competition will switch the lights on. The evening closes with a fireworks display and a festive lights and laser show.

Parking is free in all council town centre car parks from 3.30pm.

The Odeon at Parliament Square is also showing the Festive Fun with Peppa Cinema Experience on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November, at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm on both days. The film follows Peppa and her family as they celebrate Evie's first Christmas.

Three more themed weekends follow in December.

Brass Monkeys takes over the town centre on Saturday 5 December from 11am until 4pm, with local and national brass bands playing everything from Christmas carols to strolling street bands. The event celebrates Oldham's brass band heritage.

Winter Wonderland Saturday runs on 12 December from 12pm until 4pm, with characters including the Winter Fairy, Betty Twinkle, Winter Wonderland Birds, The Snow Patrol, Lairy Fairy, a Dancing Christmas tree and the Bouncing Snowmen, plus activities from the Spindles Kids Club.

The programme ends with Santa Saturday on 19 December, also from 12pm to 4pm, featuring Wish Fairies, Festive Funky Hooping, Circus Elves, Rockin' Robins, Bad Santas and Glitter Belles, with Christmas music from local brass bands.

Neil Consterdine, Oldham Council's Director of Communities, said: "Oldham's Christmas Lights Switch-On is one of the highlights of our calendar, and this year feels particularly special as we celebrate our year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, support our town centre and showcase the creativity, talent and community spirit that make Oldham so unique.

"We're looking forward to a great atmosphere and are encouraging residents and visitors to come along and enjoy everything our town centre has to offer."

The full programme of events is at whatson.oldham.gov.uk.