Calthorpe Estates is getting the festive season off to a sparkling start with this year’s Edgbaston Christmas lights switch on, which is set to take place outside St. George’s Church on Westbourne Crescent. Santa will be dropping by on his sleigh to hand out chocolate snowmen to the children, and there will be a chance to meet Mrs Claus and an Elf, in addition to feed two of his reindeer.

Rob and Katy from the 102.2 Capital FM breakfast show will be leading the countdown to the switch on, which will be performed outside the church by Gisela Stuart MP at 5.30pm.

To celebrate the event, many restaurants and bars across The Village will be offering seasonal tipples to warm up the November night. Free mulled cider, hot rum toddies and hot chocolate will be available, along with other tempting treats served by The High Field, The Edgbaston and Norjske along Highfield Road.

After the switch on, everyone is invited to head to Harborne Road, where El Borracho de Oro and The Blue Piano will be offering free drinks and tasters of their highly-acclaimed food.

There will be an opportunity to take part in a free prize draw to win an fantastic ‘Edgbaston Experience’ for 2 people to include a round of golf at Edgbaston Golf Club, day passes to Edgbaston Priory Club, a meal at The High Field, Spa Beauty package, theatre tickets and overnight stay at the Marriott.

At the heart of the switch on, St. George’s Church will be providing visitors with hot drinks and cookies, and an organist will be playing festive tunes. Outside the church there will be performances from school choirs to get everyone in the Christmas spirit and a jazz band will help the evening go with a swing.