Thousands of people in Kirklees will get into the Christmas spirit – starting on Saturday.

While many will take train trips to the popular German markets in Leeds and Manchester, there is plenty to do closer to home.

The countdown to Christmas is launched on Saturday with the Huddersfield Christmas Lights switch-on.

Children’s TV favourite Dr Ranj is joining the event in the Piazza from 4.30pm, which includes music and games before the town is illuminated at 6.30pm.

Kirklees Council Cabinet member Clr Jean Calvert said: “The lights switch-on, for most people, signals the start of Christmas in Huddersfield.

“Last year’s switch on was a huge success, drawing more people than ever into the town centre. This year will be even better.

“We have an impressive line-up of special guests and entertainers this year – there’s something for everyone. The warm atmosphere and entertainment from local talent will remind everyone why Kirklees is such a great place to live.”

After Saturday there is plenty more to come.

On November 29 Made in Dewsbury will be taking place in Dewsbury Market Place to showcase the work of local businesses making their own food and drink, and highlight the work of local community groups involved in growing their own food.

In Huddersfield, a Youth Market will take place on the same day to coincide with the Festival of Light.

The market will be in St Peter’s Gardens with 70 stalls run by young people, alongside a number of live performances and workshops.

The following events are all free to attend:

Wednesday, November 19: Dewsbury Christmas Lights Switch On at Dewsbury Market Place. Emmerdale’s Adam Thomas will switch the lights on at 5.30pm.

Saturday, November 22: Christmas Fayre at Brockholes Village Hall, with locally sourced produce, craft and gift stalls.

Saturday November 22: St Cuthbert’s Christmas Fayre, Birkby, from 2pm-4pm.

Saturday, November 22: Batley Christmas Lights Switch On, Batley Market Square, Christmas lights are switched on at 6pm with fireworks to follow.

Saturday, November 29: Festival of Light includes sing-along Frozen in St George’s Square at 2.45pm meet the characters from the hit film. Festival street entertainment includes a drumming and light show at 2pm and 6pm in the Square. An Alternative Market takes place from midday until 9pm.

Saturday, November 29-Sunday November 30: Festive Craft Market and The Loft Space open studios, Standedge Tunnel and Visitor Centre, Marsden. From 10am-4pm there will be 20 stalls selling hand-crafted products.

Friday December 5 to Sunday December 7: Christmas Tree Festival, Mirfield Trinity Methodist Church, 10am-4pm, an annual display of Christmas trees decorated by shops and other organisations in the town.

Sunday, December 6: Christmas Starts Here at University of Huddersfield, St Paul’s Hall, 6.30pm. An evening of secular and sacred Christmas and non-Christmas music and singing with guests Lindley Junior School Choir and pianist and accompanist to the ladies choir, Lloyd Buck.

Wednesday, December 10: Huddersfield Voices Carol Concert at Gledholt Methodist Church at 7.30pm. No charge but donations accepted.

Saturday, December 13: Victorian Market and Crafts at Beaumont Park. Hot food, mulled wine and stalls from 11am until 3pm.

Sunday, December 14: Carol Concert at Beaumont Park from 2-4pm. Join the Santa procession to the bandstand then enjoy the concert with mulled wine and mince pies.

Saturday, December 20: Santa and his sleigh will land on Castle Hill from 11am until 3pm.