The festive season officially started in Tayside last night as the Broughty Ferry Christmas lights switch-on saw people flock to the area.
Families were out in force as an evening of live music and entertainment was put on before the button was pressed and the lights were on.
The stage on Brook Street had the Eastern Primary School choir and Thomson-Leng Musical Society perform before the headliner: Ariana Grande tribute act Simply Ariana.
The singer got the crowd dancing and joining in through a competition to see which half of the crowd could dance the best. Teens were clearly in their element as they sang along to the music.
And then Santa Clause came on the stage, joined by Lord Provost Ian Borthwick. There was a countdown from 10 for the button to be pressed and with that, the lights came on. More music from Simply Ariana followed, and the Christmas season had officially begun in Dundee.
The event was organised by Broughty Ferry Traders’ Association (BFTA) and sponsored by Gillies, who already impressed people in Broughty Ferry earlier in the day when their Christmas window display was unveiled.
Steve James, BFTA chairman, said: “It’s been a long day but the turnout has been fantastic.
“We had about 8,000 people last year and I think we have had about that again.
“This is the second year that we’ve extended the length of the area as each year is getting bigger and bigger. It’s been really successful.
“We have tried to modernise the show and that’s why we got an Ariana Grande tribute act. It’s something for the kids and teens to enjoy, but the night really is something for the whole family as well.”
Aside from the entertainment on the main stage, the street had a carnival atmosphere, with attractions such as trampolines and merry-go-rounds for youngsters to enjoy.
Many shops were open late for the occasion and butchers Scott Brothers were also on hand, cooking burgers for hungry customers.
