As December draws ever closer the city is gearing up to be transformed into a sparkling Christmas wonderland.

Eastern Daily Press: Castle Illuminations... Scenes from the Norwich Christmas Lights Switch on 2016 - With Norwich City Chairman and Strictly Come Dancing contestant Ed Balls turning on the light. Picture: Matthew Usher.Castle Illuminations... Scenes from the Norwich Christmas Lights Switch on 2016 - With Norwich City Chairman and Strictly Come Dancing contestant Ed Balls turning on the light. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)

Here's a look at everything you need to know about this year's light switch on celebrations.

When is it?

The Norwich Christmas light switch on for 2017 will take place on Thursday, November 16 between 6pm and 8pm.

Where is it?

A range of activities will take place across the city, from Norwich Cathedral to Gentleman's Walk. The main switch on is set to take place outside City Hall.

Once on, the Christmas lights will be located across the city centre, into The Norwich Lanes and new for this year into Norwich Cathedral Quarter.

What's on?

As well as the switch on, Santa will leading a colourful parade through the city centre from 6pm, starting at Norwich Cathedral and finishing at Gentleman's walk.

A range of festive entertainment will also be on offer outside City Hall.

The Tunnel of Light will be returning to Hay Hill in all its glory with 50,000 sequenced lights that reflect the patterns and colours of the Northern Lights. The 70ft castle projects will also be back, featuring three different 10 minutes films for all to enjoy throughout November and December.

Who's turning the lights on?

This year's special guest is former Anglia TV presenter, Helen McDermott, who has also worked for Mustard TV and Radio Norwich. Last year Ed Balls did the honours.

Road Closures

A series of road closures will be in place on the night. These include St Peters Street, Upper St Giles, Bank Plain, Bedford Street, Bethel Street (between St Peter's Street and the Forum Car Park), Exchange Street, Gaol Hill, Gentleman's Walk, London Street, Opie Street, Queen Street, St Andrews Hill, St Giles Street (from Upper Goat Lane to Guildhall Hill) and Tombland.

The pedestrianisation of Upper Goat Lane will also be revoked between 4pm and 9pm.