More than 3,000 people turned out for a Christmas lights show extravaganza in Oban on Saturday night.
Reindeer, festive markets, whisky tasting, cookery demonstrations and a comedy gig were among the highlights during the first weekend of the town’s fifth annual Winter Festival.
Spectators gathered in Station Square at 6pm for the switching on of the lights by children from local primary schools.
This followed the reindeer parade, which left the Corran Halls with Santa at 5pm behind the Oban pipe band and headed for the square.
Earlier in the afternoon, crowds were treated to a market in the Oban Distillery, showcasing an array of local food and drink, along with cookery demonstrations and live music from Barrowband.
Other events during the afternoon included unique camper van tours around Oban, a reading by a father and daughter-in-law duo who write and illustrate children’s books, and an Animal Aid Christmas craft fair.
Festival chairwoman Pamela Lockhart said: “At least 3,000 people turned out for the lights being switched on.
“The festival has been getting bigger every year and this year is no different. A number of events have been sell-outs, including the St Andrew’s day ceilidh in the Corran Halls.
“This festival is special because it is all about the community. Everybody is involved and everyone can take part. Everyone looks forward to it each year and it’s just a fantastic occasion for all.
Following the switching on of the lights, crowds were treated to a comedy gig at the Corran Halls from London-based comedienne Bettine Mackenzie, originally from Inverness.
Next Saturday, various special Scottish-themed events will take place to celebrate St Andrew’s Day, including a Haggis Hurling competition, Tartan Dash and St Andrew’s Day ceilidh.
Scott Davies, who is the head chef at Skye’s Three Chimneys restaurant, will also be appearing on Saturday for a cookery demonstration in the Oban Distillery cask room.
The festival comes to an end on Sunday, with a Haggis Festival, when nine local butchers will go head-to-head to win the Golden Haggis award, followed by a Kelpie lantern parade, light show and fireworks display.