THOUSANDS of people turned out for a day of festive fun in Ringwood on Saturday.

The town centre transformed into Lapland for the annual lights switch on, which began with a Christmas market and street entertainment.

Youngsters also had the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto and make Christmas lanterns ahead of a parade through the town.

Steve Nash of the Ringwood Events Committee said: "Over the course of the day, thousands of people visited the town centre.

“We’ve had great feedback. All day, people were laughing and having a good time.”

Steve thanked 16 Ringwood schoolchildren who dressed as elves and handed out free sweets.

“They had an absolute whale of a time,” he said.

“We also gave away balloons at the end of the day.

“It was a really great event.”