In 2000, crowds of people came to see Father Christmas and his reindeer arrive at the Buttermarket.

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

People young and old lined the roadside as the big man in red travelled along Dogs Head Street in Ipswich, past the former Pals nightclub - now Revolution - to the Buttermarket in his sleigh.

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

It was a fun affair for all the family, with a parade headed by the Ipswich Sea Cadets adding to the atmosphere.

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

The procession led Father Christmas to his destination, where he met with hundreds of children all wanting to put in their present requests ahead of the big day.

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

This year, the Buttermarket shopping centre celebrated its 25th birthday, having first opened its doors to the public on October 1, 1992.

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

Were you one of the children who lined the streets that day? Do you remember meeting Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000?

Ipswich Star: Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000Crowds of people lined the streets to welcome Father Christmas at the Buttermarket in 2000 (Image: Archant)

To share you own pictures and memories with us, email suffolkpicturedesk@archant.co.uk

Ipswich Star: Father Christmas moves through the townFather Christmas moves through the town (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Star: Father Christmas moves through the townFather Christmas moves through the town (Image: Archant)