Here’s the full programme of events for Saffron Walden’s Christmas extravanganza as the festive fun takes hold this weekend.

Sunday’s action starts at 11am and runs until 4pm when Father Christmas joins mayor Keith Eden for the festive lights switch-on.

The Walden Buskers, singer Holly, the Paintpot Boys and Ben Jammin Smith will keep the music flowing in the market square from 11am-1pm.

Pure Rhythm will then perform at 1.30pm.

The presentation of the memorial Flossy Geddy bench will take place on the Common at 2pm, and the Saffron Players will show clips from their pantomime in Market Place.

A jazz quartet and the Wimbish Military Wives Choir will entertain the crowds from 2.15pm-3.30pm, before local school choirs join in.

Professional theatre company HyperFusion will perform from 3.45-4pm before the big switch-on.

A Christmas-themed market will run from 10am-5pm.

• Meanwhile, the Mayor’s Appeal Arts Exhibition, in aid of Saffron Walden Opportunity Play Group, will be on Saturday and Sunday, from 10am-5pm, at the town hall.

The exhibition “with a ­difference”, organised by the Saffron Walden Arts Trust, features ­demonstrations by local artists and craftsmen in a range of media, including illustration, jewellery, painting, pottery, photography, sculpture, textile art and woodturning.

There will also be an area for ­children to try their hand at Christmas card making.

Jill Leech, who helps to organise the arts fair, said: “We always like to support the mayor’s charity, as well as local artists and craftsmen.

“It is different to other arts fairs because the artists and craftsmen are going to be demonstrating their skills. People can talk to them and get a real sense of their work.

“There should be a lovely festive feel to the weekend, and it will be an ideal time for people to pick up a Christmas present.”

Local buskers and musicians will provide entertainment at the event on Saturday and Sunday, and refreshments will be available.

A preview evening, open to all, is being held tomorrow (Friday), from 6-8pm. Tickets at the door are £5 for non-members. All proceeds go to the charity.