FESTIVE displays will have visitors ‘reaching for their smartphones’ in Poole this Christmas.

Illuminations celebrating Poole’s maritime history are returning for a second year, with the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail running from November until January.

New two-metre gold Poole lettering will welcome visitors to the Quay, shining brightly by the sea music sculpture.

One of the illuminated trees in the High Street promises to have visitors grabbing their phones due to an interactive element.

This will allow bystanders to control the colours and animations on the tree by downloading an app, which will make the lights flash in rhythm.

Bournemouth Echo: Poole Quay Christmas lights.

A special ‘selfie’ mode will allow visitors to capture these unique moments.

White icicle lights will adorn the buildings in the Old Town High Street to the Quay.

Favourites, including the five-metre-tall ship, the recycling whale, giant illuminated anchor and the gold walk through bauble will return, along with various maritime-themed trees.

The free light show will feature an array of maritime decorations for the town’s heritage as one of the south coast’s most important medieval ports.

The show is organised by BCP Council and supported by Poole BID.

The opening night, on November 25, will feature Santa walking through the town and onto a City Cruise boat on Poole Quay.

Bournemouth Echo: Inside the giant bauble in Poole.

Poole BID, the main sponsors of the lights, will unveil its window display competition soon.

Councillor Andy Martin, portfolio holder for customer, communications and culture, BCP Council said: “To feature a light trail over such a big distance wasn’t an easy feat, but the first year of Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail was a great success.

"It brought the holiday spirit to Poole, and I’m delighted it’s running again this year.

“We’ve made subtle enhancements this year, such as raising the tall ship on a blue plinth to give the impression it’s sailing, and we’ve even got an interactive tree for people to engage with halfway through the trail which I’m looking forward to seeing in action.

“With the rising costs of living impacting everyday lives, I’d encourage everyone to come to Poole and enjoy these free maritime illuminations with friends and family.”

Jacqui Rock, manager of Poole BID, added: “Lots of hard work has once again gone into recreating the second year of our successful Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail.

"Not only will there be some new features as described, Poole BID are also delighted to be working with City Cruises to bring Santa to our shores during the launch on the 25 November which will also include Rock Choir as well as Resonate.

"Our Christmas choirs will be a heartwarming and engaging addition to your Christmas festivities, bringing people together in the spirit of the season.

“Additionally, alongside our seasonal window competition there will be a light trail giving homage to Aladdin which is our pantomime taking place at The Lighthouse, Poole during the festivities and so it’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories and enjoy the holiday season with your colleagues and friends.

"So, why not come early and appreciate the hospitality that Poole town businesses have to offer.”

The light trail is also supported by South Western Railway.

Richard Barker, partnerships and events manager for South Western Railway, said: “The inaugural Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail was an incredible family event, and South Western Railway is eagerly anticipating collaborating with BCP Council to ensure its resounding success this year, alongside Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland.”

The Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail will run between November 25 and January 2, 2024.