Tipperary begins its festive countdown as the Christmas lights are switched on

The countdown to Christmas begins in earnest this Sunday in Tipperary with hundreds expected to flock to one Premier County town for the switching on of its Christmas lights.

Nenagh will kick off its festive offerings with a street festival in the town ahead of the lights being turned on.

And with many traders already offering Black Friday deals, there is sure to be plenty to catch the bargain-hunter's eye for that special Christmas present.

The switching on at Banba Square will be a musical celebration with parts of Pearse Street closed to traffic to allow the event get underway at 3pm.

Hosted by local man Tom Bán of the RTE1's flagship children's programme Bush Kids, and the ever popular Trudi Lalor, not to mention the man himself, Santa, the show will feature The Urge, Ireland's ultimate festive party band.

Also on the line-up are local DJ JP O'Meara, the Emma Fitzgerald Group, Martin "The Freshman" Ryan, Glór Tíre's Tex Deegan, Martin Grace, the incredible Lisa Manning, Michelle Hennessy and the Hennessy School of Music, Yvonne Richardson, Ormond Comhaltas and Jack and Caitlín McGrath.

A large outdoor video screen and stage will be in place for the party.

Pearse Street will remain closed on December 27 from 8am until 9pm.