Thousands join community atmosphere at Felixstowe Christmas lights switch-on

Children enjoyed the Christmas light switch on in Felixstowe. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Santa and Rudolph kick started the afternoon festivities with a parade to the grotto, alongside a traditional Christmas craft market and food stalls – all organised by the Lions Club of Felixstowe.

The Felixstowe Christmas lights were switched on on Saturday night. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Cheerleaders, theatre groups and schools shared their performances while a candlelit parade meandered along Hamilton Road to arrive at the carol singing.

Amelia Barnes, Kayla Barnes and Ava Watson with Father Christmas at the Felixstowe light switch-on. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Felixstowe mayor Nick Barber switched on the lights at 5pm with the help of one of the town’s youngsters, who won the chance through the pebble competition.

Amelia Barnes, Kayla Barnes and Ava Watson with Father Christmas at the Felixstowe light switch-on. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

He said: “It’s brilliant and there was a wonderful atmosphere. I think it’s massive – it’s not just important for the community to all come together but it’s massive for the shops too.”

Hundreds of people gathered to see the Christmas lights get switched on in Felixstowe. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Upwards of 7,000 joined the afternoon while up to 3,000 made the evening switch-on.

Hundreds of people gathered to see the Christmas lights get switched on in Felixstowe. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Crowds gathered at the Felixstowe Christmas light switch on. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Hundreds of people gathered to see the Christmas lights get switched on in Felixstowe. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))

Hundreds of people turned out to see the Felixstowe Christmas lights get switched on. Picture: HARMAN HOPKINS (Image: Harman H Hopkins (H3 Photography))