THE wrapping is off on plans for Christmas in Taunton, with a magnificent Nordmann fir taking centre stage outside the Market House.

The tree has been donated to the town by Langford Lake, in Langford Budville, and has taken 20 years to reach its height.

It was chosen by wildlife presenter Johhny Kingdom, who will switch on the Christmas lights to top off two days of festive fun on Sunday (November 29) at 5pm.

Somerset County Gazette: Johnny Kingdom at Tarr Steps, which he mentions in the programme. PHOTO: Steve Guscott

Johnny Kingdom.

Taunton Deane Council has been working with the community and business partners to ensure the festivities go with a swing, offering a range of events and shopping opportunities for all ages in the run up to December 25.

The curtain goes up on the Christmas Festival weekend with a day of seasonal fun and activities at The Brewhouse theatre on Saturday.

The programme starts at 11am with festive poems and stories, a fun look at A Christmas Carol, arts and crafts, Christmas fair and Victorian-style photo booth.

The festive lights at the theatre, which is staging Merlin's Apprentice from December 5 to January 5, go on at 4.30pm with flash mob carols.

The Santa Run takes place in Vivary Park at noon in aid of the Children's Hospice South West.

The Blackdown Hills market is on Castle Green until 5pm, while there's an Advent and Chalet Market in High Street.

Shops are staying open until 8pm, while parking in the council's town centre car parks is free after 3pm.

The festival continues into Sunday, with a funfair at Coal Orchard and markets throughout the town.

Santa is coming to town, thanks to road safety charity Think Amy, with the great man carried on a reindeer-drawn sleigh before settling into his grotto in the Castle Hotel.

Johnny Kingdom will arrive in an open-top bus to push the plunger for the big switch-on at 5pm.

Cllr Mark Edwards, deputy leader of Taunton Deane Council, said: "All of our partners have pulled together this programme of entertainment that will give Taunton a real buzz this year.

"I hope people will show their support for our excellent traders in shops and on market stalls.

"So many people have worked very hard to ensure Taunton Deane has a festive season to enjoy and be proud of."