Children in Need 2018 date and TV schedule: What time are the EastEnders and Strictly specials? Who is hosting?

The biggest fundraising night is upon us as BBC’s Children in Need gets ready for its annual fundraising bonanza.

The epic night of television combines celebrity guests, live music and well-known BBC shows for spin-off specials all in the name of charity.

From Strictly Come Dancing to EastEnders, all your BBC favourites are involved in the evening to raise money for projects all over the UK, and the world, designed to help children and their families.

Here is everything you need to know about Children in Need 2018’s big night:

Who are the presenters?

Strictly Come Dancing presenter Tess Daly will once again return to the stage to kick-off the evening, in a slot she’s held for many years – originally alongside the late, great Sir Terry Wogan.

Graham Norton, Mel Giedroyc and Ade Adepitan will all feature throughout the night, as well husband and wife duo Rochelle and Marvin Humes and first-time host Rob Beckett.

What special shows are happening?

Strictly Come Dancing

Pop sensations Boyzone will be trying their luck in the ballroom as they compete for the Pudsey Glitterball Trophy.

Ronan Keating is dancing with Gordana Grandosek, the professional partner of former show dancer Trent Whiddon, while Shane Lynch is with Luba Mushtuk, who joined the cast this year but doesn’t have a celebrity partner.

Keith Duffy is partnered with Nadiya Bychkova, who was eliminated in week three with Lee Ryan, and Mikey Graham will be spinning around the floor with Katya Jones, who partnered with Seann Walsh and was embroiled in a kissing controversy.

EastEnders

The cast of the long-running soap opera are donning fancy dress to perform a medley of Disney hits in the middle of Walford.

Tilly Keeper, who plays Louise Mitchell, is Princess Jasmine while Zack Morris, who plays Keegan Baker, is Aladdin.

Mastermind

Stephen Mangan will host a special version of the quiz show with the kids taking the hot-seat alongside a host of celebrities.

When is it on TV?

Children in Need airs Friday, November 16 from 7.30pm on BBC One