CBD lights up for Christmas

Thousands turn out to be part of Christmas celebrations in town

IT’S beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Toowoomba.

Christmas in the CBD lit up the city on Thursday night as a cast of hundreds walked through the streets bringing festive cheer to all those they passed.

Thousands of people lined the streets, watching Santa and his elves make their way from Ruthven and Herries Sts through to Grand Central Shopping Centre.

The event was scheduled for the previous Thursday but due to rain, it was moved to this week.

Luckily, there was no rain to dampen spirits with a number of events to entertain guests.

The evening started with Christmas music, followed by a Toowoomba City Cheerleaders performance, Helen Earley carollers.

The Harlaxton RSL bass band also delighted with a performance.

City Hall was lit up by Toowoomba Regional Council mayor Paul Antonio before the sleigh procession began, leaving City Hall, stopping at Bell St Mall for more festivities before finishing at Grand Central for the lighting of the Christmas tree in the centre’s new Central Square.

Grand Central marketing manager Melissa Shaw said the centre was thrilled to be involved in the council’s CBD Christmas celebrations.

“Our 35ft Christmas tree will be pride of place in our new outdoor community space,” she said.

PHOTOS: KEVIN FARMER LIT UP: Toowoomba’s largest Christmas tree lights up at Grand Central for Christmas in the CBD celebrations.

Shane Finney takes a photo of his children Addison (left) and Phoenix Finney with Santa.

Santa's sleigh in Ruthven St as part of Christmas in the CBD celebrations.

Andrew Eastall and his daughter Olivia Eastall are excited to see Santa.

All dressed up for Christmas are (from left) Leilani Suey, Lara Mitchell and Arianna Suey.

Daniel Dove has fun with hula hoops in the Bell St Mall.