Thousands of people gathered for the High Wycombe Christmas Lights Switch-On event.

The festivities, sponsored by Wycombe Wanderers Football Club (WWFC), kicked off at noon on Sunday, November 17, in the town centre with a 'Blue Christmas' theme, featuring a full day of activities.

The town centre was filled with children's rides, craft stalls, and holiday treats, and Santa himself made a special appearance.

Food trucks offered a mix of global flavours, adding to the holiday spirit.

Throughout the day, live music and performances from groups entertained the crowd across two stages.

The Heeler sisters, Bluey and Bingo, were a hit on the main stage with their interactive shows, drawing in families for extra festive fun.

Bingo and Bluey made a special apperanceBingo and Bluey made a special apperance (Image: Matt Wilby)

The highlight of the evening was the Christmas lights switch-on at about 6.30pm.

WWFC's mascot Bodger, cast members from The Swan's 'Aladdin' pantomime, and local dignitaries led the countdown, marking the official start of the holiday season in High Wycombe.

The event saw an 18 per cent increase in footfall compared to the previous week, with more people attending from earlier on in the day.

Melanie Williams, HWBIDCo CEO, expressed her appreciation for the community's involvement.

(Image: Matt Wilby)

She said: "This was a fabulous event, it was busier than last year, with more people attending from earlier on during the day, footfall was up 18 per cent on the week before.

"My praise and thanks go out to the incredible community groups, schools, choirs, and dance troops, along with stall holders and our wonderful key sponsor Wycombe Wanderer FC for making the event possible and such a special day.

"We wish everyone in High Wycombe a very happy Christmas."

Neil Peters, the head of business operations at Wycombe Wanderers FC, also shared his delight.

He said: "Wycombe Wanderers were delighted to support the High Wycombe Christmas Lights Switch-On as headline sponsor, and our team were thrilled to meet so many local people who were keen to show their support for the town and its football club.

"It was fantastic for the club to engage with so many people throughout the day and to see many other local businesses and on-stage performers thriving and enjoying the event alongside us.

"The event was a superb showcase for High Wycombe and everyone involved did the town proud.

"We hope to see as many local people at Adams Park for our upcoming home games over Christmas, playing their part in the continued success of the football team, who are enjoying a fantastic run of form in league and cup."