Aberdeen well and truly got into the festive spirit as crowds gathered for some seasonal fun.
The Christmas Village officially opened today, offering revellers the chance to snap up some unique gifts while taking in the ice rink and fairground rides.
The extended village on Broad Street also includes a festive crazy golf course, Santa’s Grotto and a silent disco at the weekends – which will raise money for Friends of Anchor.
And just round the corner at the Castlegate, crowds gathered for the Christmas tree light switch on.
The tree, gifted each year by Aberdeen’s twin city of Stavanger, was lit up in a ceremony attended by Lord Provost Barney Crockett and the deputy mayor of Stavanger, Bjorg Tysdal Moe before a choral performance.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “Seasonal cheer has certainly arrived in the city centre as we get festivities under way with the launch of the Aberdeen Christmas Village.
“We would encourage the people of the city, region and further afield to visit and enjoy both our Christmas Village and the wider city.”
TIMELAPSE: Watch the Aberdeen Christmas market take shape in under a minute
On Sunday, there will be some more festive fun as Union Street’s lights are switched on in a spectacular parade featuring pipers, floats, panto characters, street entertainers and Santa and Rudolph.
Santas on scooters will set of from Albyn Place at 5pm, followed by those taking part in Charlie House’s Santa Fun Run.
The main parade sets off at 5.30pm from Albyn Place to Castlegate, and will this year also feature feature knights, foot soldiers and peasants to mark the 700th anniversary of the signing of the Stocket Charter by Robert the Bruce.
Mr Crockett said: “The Christmas lights transform the city centre each year, brightening up the dark nights and bringing the festive season to life.
“The parade is a great way for families and friends to enjoy this magical time of year and for many the lights switch-on parade signals the start of the celebrations.”
Council culture spokeswoman Marie Boulton added: “The city is sparkling with festive cheer as Christmas in Aberdeen is shaping up to be a truly magical time of year.
“Through our city centre masterplan, Aberdeen City Centre is committed to making Aberdeen an even more vibrant place to live, work and visit. And Christmas in Aberdeen creates activities for everyone, but importantly, encourages people into the city centre, boosting the leisure economy.”
