The towering 22-metre tree will be illuminated with 8640 sparkling lights and 150 decorations including chrome baubles, gold stars and candy canes.

Council expects thousands of residents and visitors to pack King George Square on Friday night for the annual festive favourite.

The free event will feature performances from Eurovision star Dami Im and the Australian Girls Choir.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner will be joined by Alice from the Starlight Foundation to flick the big switch and light up the tree.

Special appearances by Santa, Christmas elves and Bluey will also bring the magic of Christmas to Brisbane’s big stage to mark the start of Brisbane’s Christmas events program.

This is one of many free and affordable festive events on offer through this year’s Christmas program, which includes something to suit all ages and interests.

The magical Enchanted Gardens has returned to the Roma Street Parklands with 12 kilometres of fairy lights, night-time projections and intricate holograms bringing the garden to life.

Christmas on Queen will bring the festive spirit to the Queen Street Mall with daily roaming performances.

For residents still on the hunt for Christmas gifts, Queen Street Mall will be open for late night shopping from Monday 16 December with major shopping centres open until 9pm.

For those wanting to make the season brighter for others, the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust Christmas Appeal is now open and raising funds for local charities supporting vulnerable residents.

Brisbane’s King George Square Christmas Tree will be on display and lit up each night from 29 November – 5 January.

To donate to the Christmas Appeal, visit www.LMCT.org.au.

To view the full program of events, visit www.christmasinbrisbane.com.au.

Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

“Brisbane’s lifestyle is unmatched, and you see that firsthand during the festive season when our community comes together to enjoy Christmas celebrations.

“The lighting of the Christmas Tree is the star on top of our fun-filled festive program of free and affordable events.

“There’s something special about seeing the excitement on the faces of residents and visitors when the tree lights up and it’s certainly a highlight of the season for many Brisbane families.

“We know rising costs can impact Christmas plans and this year’s program is filled with free and affordable events to suit all budgets.

“I hope it encourages everyone to explore our full Christmas in Brisbane program, which offers something for every family to enjoy throughout the holidays.”