SANTA will arrive in the Ipswich Mall with his friends on Thursday night to kick off the excitement of the festive season.

The Magic of Christmas event will also feature Mayor Paul Pisasale turning on this year's Christmas lights.

Sponsored by Harvey Norman Ipswich, the Magic of Christmas extravaganza warms up at 6pm with A Star is Born competition entrants performing.

Winners of the Riverlink school choir competition, Riverview State Primary School, will also perform.

The Popcorn Pirates continue the entertainment line-up.

Their fun-filled, engaging and interactive stage show will thrill both children and adults.

This hugely popular pirate show has been delighting audiences around Australia for more than seven years, and has also featured on TV's Brisbane Extra.

At the end of this magical evening, Santa will give out free gifts to children.

Next Saturday morning, November 19, Santa will arrive at Riverlink shopping centre, North Ipswich, by steam train.

The train will stay in place for an hour from 10am for family photos with Santa.