The special guest turning on the Norwich Christmas lights in 2023 has finally been revealed.

The festive event, hosted by Norwich City Council, will take place on a stage in front of City Hall on Thursday, November 16 from 5.30pm until 7.15pm.

Ahead of the switch-on at 7pm, there will be performances from the Framtastics gymnastics group, The Garage and Invidia Voices choir.

READ MORE: First acts announced for major Norfolk-wide festival returning in 2024

Father Christmas will also make an appearance and there will be blessings delivered by the Revd Canon Edward Carter from St Peter Mancroft Church.

Eastern Daily Press: West End performer Millie O’Connell will turn on the Christmas lights, who also stars in the upcoming Norwich Theatre Royal panto Picture: Richard Jarmy Photography West End performer Millie O’Connell will turn on the Christmas lights, who also stars in the upcoming Norwich Theatre Royal panto Picture: Richard Jarmy Photography (Image: Richard Jarmy Photography)

The famous face who will be turning on the city lights is West End performer Millie O’Connell, who was one of the original Queens in the hit musical Six.

READ MORE: Six the Musical star announced for Norwich pantomime

She also stars as the panto princess in Sleeping Beauty - The Fairy's Tale at Norwich Theatre Royal this Christmas. 

At the event, she will sing All I Want For Christmas with the theatre’s 12-strong Junior Ensemble and panto fairies-in-training. 

Then, the Junior Ensemble will lead the crowd in the countdown before Millie pulls the handle on the big plunger to switch on the lights.

Eastern Daily Press: Father Christmas will be at the Norwich lights switch-onFather Christmas will be at the Norwich lights switch-on (Image: Supplied by Norwich City Council)

The lighting scheme this year, provided by Norwich BID with support from Norwich City Council, will be 100pc LED and powered by 100pc renewable energy.

While the Tunnel of Light is cancelled this year due to the works on Hay Hill, there will be festive decor in more areas. 

READ MORE: Four-day Christmas market with street food and donkeys coming to the city

Following the switch-on, there will be one more musical surprise and there will also be a brass band playing outside Jarrolds.

Many Norwich Market stalls will remain open until 8pm for foodie treats and Christmas shopping opportunities and a funfair will be at Gentlemans Walk from 4.30pm until late. 

Accessible and quieter viewing areas will be available – book in advance by emailing events@norwich.gov.uk