Rotherham's Christmas has the X-Factor

The boy band will line up with fellow talent show contestant Nicola Marie — performing as Lady Gaga — and singer-songwriter Larissa Eddie for the annual Christmas Lights switch-on on November 12 from 4.30pm.

There will also be a market along Effingham Street from 10am until 7pm plus children’s rides and free parking from 4.30pm in council-owned car parks and on-street parking bays.

The seasonal entertainment continues with a Magical Musical Christmas on

Saturday, November 28, from 10.30am until 3.30pm

There will be a main stage in All Saints’ Square with acts performing throughout the day including swing singer Joshua Lewis, The Christmas Band with lots of festive classics and tribute to The King, Elvis Once More, as well as family fun from the Wonder Wheelers and a Rodeo Reindeer.

A Dickensian Christmas follows on Saturday, December 5 from 10.30am to 3.30pm, featuring entertainment from Dr Pandamonious Fish, Punch and Judy, Scrooge and Scratchit, Miniature Steam Railway, Dr Phantasma's Ten in One Show, Barrel Organ, Hog Roast, Madam Arcana's Mirror of Destiny, Rotherham Town Brass Band and Victorian Dancers, Victorian Market, Circus Skills and a Victorian Great Exhibition Treasure Trail with prizes.

The popular Real Reindeer Experience, complete with a parade featuring Santa’s sleigh, returns on Saturday, December 12 from 10.30am until 3.30pm, with the parade starting at 12.45pm and music from brass bands in All Saints’ Square.