Penzance has officially begun the countdown to Christmas following a festive event held at the weekend. 

Hundreds of people flocked into the town on Saturday (December 2) to watch the festive entertainment and to see the Christmas lights being switched on.

A Christmas market was trading from St John’s Hall, where an array of local foods, gifts and artisan stalls were available for members of the public to buy gifts.

Father Christmas also visited the town along with his elf, who performed fire tricks and other entertainment.

Music was performed by Bec Applebee, Martin Skewes, True Foxes and Out of the Woods during the event, and a special performance from pupils at Mount’s Bay Academy and Humphry Davy School took place on the Wagon Stage.

Falmouth Packet: The festive season has arrived in Penzance The festive season has arrived in Penzance (Image: Howard Phillips)There was plenty of street entertainment taking place throughout the town to keep visitors and locals entertained before the lights were switched on at 5.30.

This year, the lights were turned on by Penzance Town Crier Phillip Northcutt and Penzance councillor Stephen Reynolds who gave a short speech before switching on the lights to the cheers of the crowd.

Penzance town council has revealed that this year’s theme is a ‘Cornish Christmas Nadelik Kerneweek’ and more entertainment and events throughout December will take place to support Penzance businesses.

For more information, visit https://lovepenzance.co.uk/.