CHRISTMAS is coming to Eastleigh today with the annual festive lights switch-on set to kickstart the holiday season.

With Santa's Grotto, live music and a fun fair, a host of activities and stalls are being put on for families.

Starting at 11am, residents will have the chance to enjoy the fun fair and a variety of market stalls on Leigh Road, while youngsters can also visit the mobile farm at Wells Place and visit Father Christmas in his Grotto at the Eastleigh Museum.

These events will then build up to the main attraction which begins at 5.15pm.

Live music and face painting will entertain guests until the light parade, which is also being led by Santa.

Deputy mayor of Eastleigh, councillor Chris Thomas will then switch on the festive lights at 6pm, followed by a firework display.

The new lights, inspired by snowflakes and stars, was unveiled in 2016 and has returned after the council recieved positive feedback from residents.

The Sorting Office Open Studios on the High Street will also be open throughout the day to give local artists a chance to showcase and sell their works and inspire residents for their festive shopping.

On top of that, returning for another year is the Santa postbox.

Children can send their letter direct to Father Christmas at the Swan Centre.

Road closures will also be put in place, with sections of Market Street, Wells Place, High Street and Leigh Road closed throughout the day.

From 11am, Market Street will be closed between Leigh Road and Wells Place.

Wells Place will be shut between the High Street and Hanns Way

Leigh Road will be closed to vehicles between Desborough Road and the High Street.

During the evening parade, Mitchell Road will be shut north of Regal Walk and Leigh Road will shut between Romsey Road and Desborough Road. Wells Place will also close between Mitchell Road and Wells Road.

Scroll through the gallery to see pictures from the 2015 and 2016 Eastleigh Christmas Lights switch-on.