BRIGHTON's Christmas lights will be switched on tonight as thousands of people are expected to party in the streets.

This year's festive lights will be different from those used in the past. They will include words such as including ‘Fairy’ and ‘Ding Dong’ and emojis.

Traditional twinkling lights will be switched on to cover the North Laine and a gorgeous golden canopy of lights will scatter The Lanes.

The free event in East Street will see performances from Phats and Small, who produced 1999 house anthem Turn Around, and Brighton producers Kideko and George Kwali who are behind current hit Crank It.

Also taking to the stage will be Theatre Workshop and the Dionne Slater Singing Group.

Switching on the light will be comedian and actor Steve Coogan who will lead the countdown and flicking the switch to unveil the festive lights.

Brilliant Brighton CEO Gavin Stewart, who organise the event, said: “We’re really looking forward to this year’s big Christmas light switch-on.

“It’s a great opportunity for the city’s residents and businesses to get together and celebrate Brighton at the most wonderful time of year.

“We hope to see as many people come down and join the party, as well as taking selfies with their favourite lights too.”

The event starts at 5pm and continues until 7pm.