The spirit of Christmas was certainly in the air as the community came together to see Bowral sparkle with the commencement of the Festival of Lights.
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Highlanders of all ages gathered at the Corbett Plaza on December 7 in the afternoon for the lighting of the Christmas tree, speeches, performances, face painting and balloon creations.
The festival was inspired by the Christmas light displays in Europe and the desire for the local community to unite during the festive season.
"It's really important for us as human beings to have something a bit hopeful and people are seeing that," said key organiser Michaela Bolzan.
"It really is beautiful gets you into the festive spirit, it looks really pretty.
"People can't help smiling at pretty fairy lights."
Interim administrator Viv May and WSC general manager Lisa Miscamble said a few words and invited two young Highlanders with a special job.
Robertson Public School captains Isla and Mackenzie had the honour of marking the start of the festival by lighting the tree.
The afternoon's festivities were not complete without Christmas' golden couple Mr and Mrs Claus, who ditched the reindeers and sleigh for Mittagong RFS fire trucks.
"It feels very special indeed, and there's a lovely atmosphere here," Mrs Claus said.
"Lots of smiles and laughter, and it's good that it's not freezing because we've come from the North Pole."
Many Highlanders of all ages, even residents with fur and tails, had photos with Santa and Mrs Claus.
Dancers from The Highlands School of Performing Arts (THSPA) entertained attendees with three performances.
Musicians Harrison Graham, Highlands FM's Homegrown artist for December Sara Berki and guitar duo Rory and Ron also lifted everyone's spirits and had them tapping their feet.
Once it was darker, everyone made their way to the Corbett Gardens where the Christmas Wonderland light installation was unveiled.
The gardens were full of stars, fairly lights, angels and a wheelchair accessible sleigh where Highlanders can take photos.
Chairman of the Southern Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Industry Steve Horton said that he received positive feedback from the community today (December 8) in regards to the installation.
"What a great night," he said.
"I reckon it helped lift everyone's spirits."
The project has been over 10 months in the making and was created in collaboration with the company Luminous.
"We want to celebrate heritage elements of Bowral, and it's about restoring some tradition, about celebrating in a civic sense of coming together," said guest designer Sergei Netchaef.
Customised signage and lights were also incorporated into the installation.
He said the goal was to have more towns and villages involved next year.
There will be concerts in the Corbett Gardens with local performers such as the Vocal Muster, Women of Notes and young and upcoming band Squash J on December 17 and 18 from 7.30-9.30pm.
A tree in front of council chambers is also going to be lit on November 9 between 4.30pm and 5.30pm, and the one in front of the Southern Highlands Welcome Centre at the same time on December 10.
Entertainment includes puppeteers and stilt walkers on both days.
Highlanders have the opportunity to admire the Christmas Wonderland every night until December 28.
More information about the Festival of Lights can be found here.
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