Kendal town centre was transformed into a 'bustling and vibrant' spot as it welcomed the festive season.
The annual Christmas lights switch-on event took place on Thursday, November 21, bringing together the local community in a celebration full of noise and colour.
Kendal Mayor Councillor Jonathan Cornthwaite explained the 'great honour' at being the one to turn on the lights this year.
Read more: Kendal Mayor reflects on 'busy' first six months in office | The Westmorland Gazette
He added: "The turnout was fantastic, and it was great to see visitors to our town getting involved in the celebrations.
"The lights and Christmas tree look absolutely beautiful - it was great to see the town centre looking so bustling and vibrant.
"Thank you to all the organisers who worked so hard behind the scenes, and to the people of Kendal for bringing such a wonderful energy to the event."
The switch-on event acted as the prelude to the weekend's Kendal Mountain Festival (KMF), whose team helped make the celebrations on Thursday a reality.
Read more: Children in Need: Paddy McGuinness passes through Cumbria | The Westmorland Gazette
A spokesperson from the event commented: "This event is only possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of many volunteers and amazing community organisations.
"Every member of the Kendal Town Council staff team and lots of councillors. together with the brilliant KMF team, also helped to make it a success for many.
"Apologies to anyone who didn't make it near the front of the stage to enjoy the stage entertainment and KMF films - various solutions are already brewing to make sure more people can enjoy the full event in 2025."
The event has been lauded for drawing large crowds to the area, with one resident saying it was 'fantastic' to see the town centre so busy.
They said: "Takeaways, pubs and shops all busy, lots of tourists spending plenty of money and a great Christmas lights switch on.
"I know it's not been everyone's cup of tea but seeing Kendal buzzing can only be a good thing."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here