Phil Mitchell, Union J, and other stars from the musical world and TV screens will be turning on Preston’s Christmas Lights.

This year’s switch on takes place on Saturday 25 November and the celebs have been confirmed.

Soap acting legend Steve McFadden who plays Phil in EastEnders joins the fun on the Flag Market from 5.30pm until 8pm to put a twinkle in the city’s festive celebrations.

Performances during the evening will come from boy band Union J, former lead singer of the Drifters Ray Lewis, operatic sensation Sean Ruane and CBeebies star Katy Ashworth.

Before the switch on and performances Santa’s Reindeer will be on the Flag Market between 2pm and 4pm while the stage is set up.

Preston Business Improvement District’s Mark Whittle said: “The Christmas Concert and Switch On is widely regarded as a headline event in the city’s calendar.

“We’re always blown away by the number of people who come out to enjoy the event to help us officially start Christmas in Preston. We’re delighted to be working with the North West’s largest commercial radio station, Smooth Radio North West, to stage another outstanding show.”

Read more: Winckley Square to become Christmas wonderland for two days

This year’s event is also sponsored by the St George’s Shopping Centre.

General manager Andrew Stringer said: “It’s a pleasure for us to sponsor this flagship event once again. Christmas is a great time of year to get together with the family and we’re proud to be associated with a quality event that officially launches this magical time of year.”

Read more: Alternative Christmas gift market returning to the city

The lights switch on is free to attend for all ages and you can show you’re interested via the Facebook event.

What do you think of the line up? Will you be going? Let us know in the comments below