The countdown to one of Norfolk's most anticipated events is almost over as Thursford prepares for the opening of the famous Christmas Spectacular this week.

Ely Standard: Behind the scenes at Thursford. Pictured is dancer Kimberlee Collicutt. Picture: Ian BurtBehind the scenes at Thursford. Pictured is dancer Kimberlee Collicutt. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant)

Tickets are on sale for the entertainment-packed show, which runs from November 8 to December 23, and they are expected to sell out fast.

Each year more than 110,000 people flock to the Thursford Collection, which is situated between Fakenham and Holt, to enjoy the mix of festive music, song and dance for all ages.

This year's cast of performers is made up of 130 professional musicians, dancers and singers who will deliver a three-hour performance of continuous music, variety and dancing.

Father Christmas is also due to make a stop at Thursford with Santa's Magical Journey. The event will give families a chance to meet Santa Claus and to travel through the North Pole to meet some of his Arctic friends, including penguins, polar bears and elves.

Ely Standard: Thursford Christmas Spectacular. Picture: ArchantThursford Christmas Spectacular. Picture: Archant (Image: Archant)

The Christmas Spectacular has been running for 41 years and it has become one of the biggest Christmas shows in Europe, attracting as many people as the Glastonbury music festival. It is also estimated to be worth more than £10m to the Norfolk economy.

In June this year a national awards ceremony held by the Group Travel Awards named the show the Best Event for Groups, beating out other major events such as Royal Ascot, The Cheltenham Festival, and RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

Shortly after winning the award operations manager Charlie Cushing said that he expected this year's show to improve upon last year's 40th anniversary celebration.

'We hope to make it bigger and better than the year before, which I think we've somehow managed to achieve. From what I've seen it is going to be far bigger and better than last year, which is a real achievement considering that was our 40th year celebration,' Mr Cushing said.

Ticket prices for the Christmas Spectacular range from £31 to £44 and tickets for Santa's Magical Adventure range from £10.50 to £16.50.

They can be booked online or over the phone by calling 01328 878 477.