“Christmas in Matlock is all about: community, creativity, local talent, festive magic and bringing our wonderful town together.”

No matter whether you have been naughty or nice this year, Matlock Town Council and Santa Claus are inviting the whole community to wrap up in a midwinter glow as the Christmas lights are switched on later this month.

The traditional parade and switch-on will set the streets of the town centre twinkling on Saturday, November 21, and it will be a more than merry little occasion.

A spokesperson for the town council said: “This year, we're going bigger, brighter and better than ever.

“So round up your family, friends, neighbours – and your Christmas jumpers – and join us as we light up Matlock. Let's make this a Christmas to remember.”

The parade party begins with a drop-in lantern making workshop from 11am to 3pm at the Imperial Rooms.

Materials and instructions will be provided in partnership with the Level Centre in Rowsley - the chosen charity for Mayor Ashley Orwin’s year of office.

Cllr Orwin said: “The workshop is completely free, although donations to Level would be hugely appreciated, supporting their incredible work making the arts accessible to people with learning disabilities and additional needs.

“This is what Christmas in Matlock is all about: community, creativity, local talent, festive magic and bringing our wonderful town together.”

From 2pm, Hall Leys Park will be rocking to the sounds of Sticky Bones Jones, Xanthe Summer, Andy Page, the Matlock Community Choir, Backstage Brass and Kev Shimmin.

The Tipsy Toad’s Toad on the Road service and Lumsdale Tea Rooms will be laying on refreshments, and the park will be peppered with retail stalls from local small businesses and a Santa’s grotto to get your wish list filed.

All that will warm the crowd up for former Radio 1 DJ Judge Jules and ex-X Factor contestant Holly Johnson, who today owns the Lumiox wellbeing clinic in Bakewell.

The parade begins at 5pm, and promises a dazzling display of cheer and delight.

If past years are any guide, Father Christmas might leave his reindeer to graze for the night and roll out on a roaring motorbike instead, and everyone is invited to join his pack.

They added: “We’re inviting schools, community groups, local organisations, businesses and clubs to join us for our annual parade.

“Decorate a float, dress up, bring your group along and help us make it a festive celebration for everyone. If you want to take part in the parade, get in touch with the council to register your group.”