Blackburn BID is offering a "unique twist" on the annual Christmas Lights switch-on and is calling on residents to attend the ‘Circus of The Moon’ later this month.

The event set for November 23 will feature light projections, circus performers, workshops, live music, markets and a stage show which intends to bring a festival atmosphere to the town centre.

Organised by Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by Blackburn with Darwen Council and the Discover Blackburn website, it will be free to attend, and visitors will also have free access to The Museum of the Moon exhibition at Blackburn Cathedral.

Catherine Price, Blackburn BID manager, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the Circus of the Moon event to life as part of the Festival of the Moon.

“This event will transform Blackburn town centre with light, sound, and performances that will create a unique atmosphere.

“It’s always a key moment in our calendar, drawing thousands into the town centre, and we have a packed programme of events in store for the festive season.”

Young dancers Aleeza and Aisha, from One Voice Blackburn, will take on hosting duties and the day will feature roaming circus performers as well as circus skills workshops, where visitors can try out a variety of circus skills.

A vintage and art market will take place at the Bureau Centre for the Arts in Exchange Street for the day and is open between 11am and 4pm.

Talent from theatre and performance arts schools will be on display and include Lancashire Dance Academy, Zoe Taylor Dance, Bernese Theatre School, Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, Katrina’s Dance & Arts Academy, and Made For Stage, whose routines will be inspired by the Circus of the Moon theme.

Blackburn’s Christmas lights will be turned on in a light launch sequence featuring a special performance by dance group Pop Up Global, with a laser show proceeding the switch-on.

Straight after the switch on, the Bureau will be putting on a night of jazz, soul and funk with singers including, Jack Watkins, Jacob Reddy, John Witherspoon from 7pm until 10.30pm.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, deputy leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and executive member for growth and development, said: “This year we have a fantastic line up of events planned to welcome the festive season in Blackburn, that will be bigger and better than ever.

“On the night of the Christmas lights switch on, local company Pop Up Global will be putting on a showstopping performance, and for the first time, we’re introducing a laser light show which I’ve heard is going to be truly impressive.

“I can’t wait to see the team’s hard work come together and look forward to seeing plenty of you there.”

The Circus of the Moon Christmas celebration will be a key highlight of the broader Festival of the Moon celebrations which kick off today, November 5.

The centrepiece is a stunning light installation, which will be showcased at Blackburn Cathedral, with a wider programme unfolding including projections, lunar-themed workshops, performances and live music throughout the town centre.