Forres town centre sparkled with Christmas cheer on Saturday as hundreds of residents gathered to witness the annual Christmas lights switch-on. The event, organised by the dedicated Forres Christmas Lights Committee, transformed the High Street into a hub of festive excitement.

The atmosphere was, according to many attendees, "truly festive." Families bundled up in their winter coats, eager children clutching glow sticks, and community members of all ages braved the chilly evening air to partake in the beloved tradition. The anticipation was palpable as the crowd waited for the guest of honour to arrive.

This year, the Forres Christmas Lights Committee pulled out all the stops, inviting none other than Santa Claus himself to illuminate the town. Adding to the merriment, Santa was accompanied by his trusty helper, Don the Elf, who kept the children entertained with his playful antics and festive cheer.

The moment Santa and Don the Elf took to the stage, a wave of excitement swept through the crowd. After a countdown led by Don the Elf, Santa flipped the switch, unleashing a dazzling display of twinkling lights that illuminated the town centre. A collective gasp of delight rippled through the crowd as the Christmas lights brought a warm glow to the faces of those gathered.

The switch-on marked the official start of the Christmas season in Forres. The Forres Christmas Lights Committee, a group of local volunteers, work tirelessly throughout the year to raise funds and ensure that the town is beautifully decorated for the festive period. Their efforts were clearly appreciated by the large turnout on Saturday, demonstrating the community’s strong support for the annual tradition. The event not only brightened the town but also fostered a sense of community spirit, bringing people together to celebrate the joy of Christmas.