THE countdown is on for Bournemouth's Christmas Tree Wonderland which returns today.

Around 100 trees will be lighting up the town centre and beyond in the Christmas Tree Wonderland Trail.

If you missed last year's inaugural event, here's our guide to everything you need to know about the 2019 extravaganza.

When does it take place?

From Friday, November 15 to Thursday, January 2.

Where is it?

The free trail starts at the illuminated big wheel at Pier Approach before weaving through the historic Lower Gardens into the the Alpine Market in the town Square.

What to look out for?

The trail features stunning themed trees from cities around the world including Moscow, St Petersburg, Bethlehem, Seattle and Warsaw, as well as a Tree of Light and canopy of cascading lights over Pine Tree Walk.

Other features include an icicle-filled Polar Walk watched over by Narnia-esque polar bears at the bandstand.

Follow the trail to the Square to see the 60ft Wonderland Tree with its 30,000 individually programmed lights and musical light shows.

How much does it cost?

The Christmas Tree Wonderland trail is free of charge.

What's new for this year?

New attractions include cascading lights and a Santa’s sleigh at the new Smuggler's Cove Adventure Golf at Pier Approach, a seven metre golden reindeer outside Beales where Santa’s grotto can be found while a crimson 10-metre Tree of Light will be making its debut appearance in the middle of the trail.

Away from the gardens, a walk-through bauble light can be found in the Triangle with gingerbread people at the Lansdowne.

When is the firework display?

There will be a festive fireworks show at Bournemouth Pier on December 19.

Families will also be able to enjoy activities and street entertainment in the town centre every late afternoon and Saturdays until Christmas Eve.

Is there an ice rink this year?

Yes the outdoor ice rink returns with its Moguls Bar in the Lower Gardens. Open every day from 11.30am to 9.30pm on November 14 – January 5 (except Christmas Day). There will also be earlier sessions from 10.30am at the weekend and every weekday after December 16.

Tickets £11.50, £9.50 for under-16 years, family ticket £38 (2 adults 2 children or 1 adult)

What's on offer at the Moguls Bar?

Visitors can relax with an aromatic mulled wine or a steamy hot chocolate topped with creamy marshmallow. There will also be a range of new, award-winning, street food vendors with some tasty festive treats.

Where can I see Santa?

Santa will be in his grotto at Beales department store in Bournemouth.

* For more information, see christmastreewonderland.co.uk