Join in the festive atmosphere in town this Christmas

Christmas Shopper

The Christmas Lights switch-on is on Thursday 15 November and the entertainment starts with fun for the whole family from 4.00pm, and on the stage on the Butts from 5.30pm. The lights will be switched on by Peppa Pig - she will appear in the Wheatsheaf Centre at 4.30pm, on The Butts at 6.00pm and in the Rochdale Exchange at 7.15pm.

Along with Peppa Pig, the show includes appearances by Big Rory and Rudolph the Red Nosed Mongrel, beautiful Ice Angels, a nine foot walking Christmas tree complete with lights, decorations and fairy, a booth of Christmas delights, characters from this year’s panto, stilt walkers, trapeze artists and of course Santa himself.

There will also be a Christmas Market from Thursday 29 November to Saturday 1 December selling food and other goods. A large range of stalls to choose from. You will be able to soak up the atmosphere whilst shopping for your loved one's Christmas gifts. Not to be missed! (Time: 9.00am-4.00pm).

There will also be plenty of Christmas music to enjoy throughout the festive season all over Rochdale Town Centre. The Debrose Choir will be Christmas Carol singing for the 'Sing For Your Heart' campaign raising funds for Heart Research. Other musical highlights include the Salvation Army Band, Littleborough Junior Brass Band, Wardle High School Junior Band and Healey Primary School Choir.

Highlights of the late night shopping in the Exchange include free samples of Christmas Fayre, a guest appearance from Peppa Pig!, the secrets of the professionals and how to create your own stylish festive masterpieces, and lots of tips and advice on what to buy that special someone in your life. You can also learn from the style professionals how to create evening looks with the use of a few accessories, and don't forget there is a free gift wrap service available for gifts purchased in the Exchange on Thursday 13 December from 5.00pm until 8.00pm and from 10 am every day from Monday 17 December until Monday 24 December.

For more information visit:

• www.towncentrechristmas.co.uk

For a full list of Christmas Events visit:

• Events/events_type.asp?EventType=Christmas