FIREWORKS, a funfair, live music and a festive parade helped get the Christmas season underway in New Addington.
Hundreds of people poured into Central Parade on Saturday to mark the switching on of the Christmas lights.
Hayley Wells, 29, was enjoying the festivities with her two sons and nephew.
She said: "The lights were really nice. And the kids have really enjoyed themselves at the fair.
"I think the fireworks were even better than last year.
"It is nice for the whole neighborhood."
Mick Watts, chair of the Christmas Lights Appeal, held a minute's silence before the switch-on for Stan Ince, a local resident who helped organise the lights for years and died in October aged 77.
Mr Watts said: "He was a great help on the committee and he has been a great help throughout the community throughout the last 30 to 40 years."
He also gave a "big thank you" to everyone who had helped produce show as well as those who had sponsored lampposts.
This year the new New Addington Business Improvement District, a coalition of local businesses, helped pay for the lights.
Mr Watts added: "So I hope this year you will find a big difference as the lights are brand new and I hope that you enjoy the lights this year."
Alex Dillon-McQueen, who performed with the Pandemic Steel Orchestra, said: "We played all different Christmas songs, including Silent Night. It was great.
"The crowd were good - they were dancing."
