CHRISTMAS is coming - and early predictions are that it's going to be the best Manchester has seen for many a year.

With 64 days to go, traders are gearing themselves up for a bumper festive season.

And a host of attractions are planned to bring shoppers flocking into the city centre.

For the first time this year, Manchester City Council is joining forces with the Arndale Centre for a combined Christmas lights switch-on on the evening of Sunday November 18.

Meanwhile Baby Spice Emma Bunton will switch on the Christmas lights at the rival Trafford Centre next Thursday.

Entertainment

Details of the city centre event titled A Taste of Christmas are a closely guarded secret, but the action will be centred on four venues: Albert Square, Exchange Square and The Triangle, and the Arndale.

There will be an hour's entertainment at each, culminating with two spectacular firework displays over Albert Square and the Arndale Centre.

A city council spokesman said: ''What we can say is that there will be a nice surprise which will allow thousands of people to literally enjoy a taste of Christmas''.

The city's German and European street markets which have become hugely popular in recent years will be held again in St Ann's Square and Albert Square from November 21 until December 21.

And there will be a full programme of activities including choirs, bands and entertainment.

The Arndale Centre will boast the biggest Santa's Grotto since the city centre was hit by the IRA bomb.

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