The festive season will be well under way in St Albans this weekend as the popular Christmas Cracker event returns to the city.

Thousands are expected to flock to the spectacular street festival, which is organised by St Albans City and District Council and held in the city centre from 12pm to 6pm on Sunday, November 20.

There will be fun for all the family, with live music, Santa’s grotto, market stalls, funfair rides, face painting and street performers among the many attractions.

The Christmas lights will provide a seasonal backdrop, while pyrotechnics on the main stage will ensure a dramatic finish to the day.

One new attraction for this year’s Cracker will be a Sustainability Activity Zone, put on by community art group St Albans Rainbow Trails, supported by the Scouts and sponsored by insurance advisory firm Mandy McNeil International.

People are asked to bring used crisp packets, cards, wrapping paper and magazines to decorate a sustainable Christmas Tree and Star, and if possible, these should already have been cut into festive shapes.

“The Christmas Cracker is a fantastic way to get the district’s festive season under way and we are sure it will attract thousands of people to the city centre,” said Danny Clare, lead councillor for events.

“There is lots of entertainment, much of it free, for people of all ages and interests with the event taking place throughout the afternoon and early evening.

“The Cracker will also provide a welcome boost to the local economy by bringing many extra visitors to the City Centre where they will use our fabulous shops, pubs and restaurants as well as buy some of the produce on sale at market stalls.”

St Albans BID is sponsoring the main stage and pyrotechnics, with BID manager Vivien Canon adding: “The Christmas Cracker is one of the biggest annual events that brings festive cheer to residents and visitors and truly kick-starts the holiday season.

“St Albans BID’s family of shops are ready with windows dressed and shelves packed full of unique and inspiring gifts. Come and enjoy a magical start to your Christmas with live entertainment, fantastic shopping and exceptional seasonal food and drink.”