THE decorations are up, the lights are in place and now it's nearly time for the eagerly anticipated big switch-on.

Braintree town centre will be lit-up this weekend when the Christmas lights are turned-on amid a frenzy of market stalls and entertainment.

A street market boasting more than 70 stalls will line the High Street, Bank Street, Great Square, Market Place and fill George Yard this Saturday.

And, as if that wasn't enough, an indoor market with craft activities and free face-painting from 2pm until 4pm will take place inside Braintree Town Hall.

On stage, singers, a school choir and dance groups will all keep you occupied from midday through to the big switch on which is due to take place at 5.30pm.

Elsewhere, Creation Station will host a free children’s Christmas art competition where they can submit a Christmas inspired drawing to win a free craft hamper.

Youngsters can submit their work beforehand or do a free drawing on the day. Visit www.facebook.com/creationstationbraintree for more details.

Braintree Museum will have free entry all day, along with Christmas carols, crafts, live music and a Christmas shop.

Meanwhile the The Boars Head pub will host events up towards the fountain end of High Street, including bouncy castle, live entertainment and hog roast.

Joscelyne Chase will be running a name the snowman competition to win the snowman and a £50 voucher for a meal at The Chophouse.

Entry will cost £1 with all proceeds donated to Hope House in Braintree.

Braintree Council will also be launching its elf trail - a chance for elf-hunters to go on a journey through the town centre to find the missing elves.

All entries will be in with a shot of winning a festive hamper in time for Christmas.

Finally, car parking will cost just 10p after 3pm on the day at all of the council owned car parks.

Visit www.braintree.gov.uk/10p for more information on parking.