BOURNEMOUTH’S Christmas celebrations will be launched from the Triangle this year to coincide with the switch-on of the town’s festive lights.

A large illuminated teddy bear will be the focal point of the event, which takes place on Friday, November 17. The Triangle is set to be lit up with fireworks for the Christmas lights countdown. There will also be live entertainment for the crowds to enjoy.

Christmas lights switch-on events have been held away from the Lower Gardens and the Square following problems with overcrowding in 2014.

Last year, the launch of celebrations took place at Pier Approach, with X Factor star Max Stone and Cinderella’s Ugly Sisters starting the countdown to a dazzling fireworks display on the beach.

The line-up for this year’s entertainment is yet to be revealed, however.

Christmas cheer is being spread more widely across the town centre this year, with plans for decorations in the Lansdowne area. There will also be a five metre high Christmas tree in Beale Place.

Other festive features have already been announced including the town’s Christmas market, which is undergoing a revamp this year. Seventa Events, which this year took over organising duties from S&D Leisure, which has held the contract for several years, announced several new traders and says 70 per cent of participants will be taking part for the first time.

The company, which has a five year contract from Bournemouth council, says 81 per cent of traders will be locally-based, and it has commissioned a new two-storey 'alpine bar' attraction for the Square. The bar will feature seating for 120 people inside with a further 40 outside, and the first floor will provide festive food with booths available to book.

The ice rink in the Lower Gardens will open mid-November and is set to attract around 30,000 people. This year’s offering will include a second nursery rink for younger skaters, a heated indoor lounge area and a new layout.

The alpine themed après skate café and bar is set to return and will be managed by staff from the Lost Paradise club.

The attraction is being developed by THIS Event Co Ltd - part of property firm THAT Group who operated the rink in the last two years.

For updates on the town’s festivities visit christmasinbournemouth.com