HUNDREDS of families, stall-holders and excitable children gathered to see Eastleigh Town Centre fill with colourful festive lights.

And back this year was the popular Christmas lights parade through the town centre, following in Santa Claus' footsteps.

Residents were then treated to a firework display at the Eastleigh bandstand to kick off the festive season with a bang.

Festivities began during the day to lead up to the spectacular night of fun, with over 30 businesses who got involved in putting on Christmas-themed shop window displays, along with multiple tombolas, charity bake sales and children’s games.