What's on this Christmas in Wolverhampton?

Festive markets, theatre shows, family attractions and Christmas light switch-on events are set to return to Wolverhampton as the city prepares for the festive season.

Residents and visitors can enjoy everything from major theatre productions and live entertainment to Christmas villages and seasonal shopping events.

Festive celebrations will take place across Wolverhampton, Bilston, Wednesfield and Tettenhall throughout November and December.

Here is a look at some of the biggest events happening in the run-up to Christmas.

The centrepiece of Wolverhampton's festive programme is this year's pantomime, Treasure Island at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.

Running from 28 November until 3 January, the production stars Richard Blackwood as Long John Silver, alongside Wolverhampton panto favourites Tam Ryan and Ian Adams.

The show follows last year's award-winning pantomime and promises pirates, adventure and plenty of family fun.

Before then, theatre-goers can also enjoy Christmas Carol Goes Wrong, which is visiting the Grand between 10 and 14 November.

Meanwhile, University of Wolverhampton at The Halls will welcome Anton Du Beke for his festive spectacular, Anton at Christmas, on 16 December.

Audiences can enjoy live music, dancing, comedy and plenty of Christmas cheer, with the Strictly star joined by vocalist Lance Ellington, a live band and professional dancers.

The festive season gets under way with a series of Christmas light switch-on events across Wolverhampton.

The city centre celebrations take place in Bell Square and Victoria Street on 21 November, with live entertainment, character appearances, fairground rides and a visit from Father Christmas before the lights are switched on at 18:00 GMT.

Wednesfield follows on 26 November, with a Christmas market, rides, live performances and festive activities ahead of its switch-on ceremony on the High Street.

Bilston hosts its celebrations on 27 November on Church Street, featuring appearances from Buddy the Elf, The Grinch and a Reindeer Flying School.

Families can enjoy arts and crafts activities, free hot chocolate for the first 200 visitors and festive performances, before the lights are switched on at 18:30 GMT.

The final switch-on takes place on Upper Green, in Tettenhall on 28 November, with festive entertainment, rides and family activities before the lights are turned on at 19:00 GMT.

Shoppers looking for last minute Christmas gifts will have several opportunities to support local traders.

The Black Country Christmas Artisan Fair comes to the Mander Centre on 28 November, bringing together local artisans, makers, bakers and designers.

The Witch Elm Market follows on 12 December, featuring more than 40 independent artists, crafters and sellers.

Bilston will also host its Christmas Village across two festive weekends, from 26 to 29 November and 3 to 6 December. Visitors can browse craft stalls and Christmas gifts while enjoying festive treats, fairground rides, marshmallow toasting, free face painting and seasonal entertainment.

Families can also head to Bantock House on 5 December for its annual Family Festive Fun event. Running from 11:00 until 16:00 GMT, the free event will feature live music, festive craft stalls, storytelling sessions, seasonal refreshments and a visit from a Santa.

For those seeking a more traditional festive experience, Christmas Music By Candlelight will take place at St Peter's Church on 9 December.

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