Families filled Wilmslow town centre for the Christmas lights switch-on by a TV pop duo and boy band.
Organisers say the turnout was three times bigger than last year at the event which launched this year's Christmas Festival.
Diva Fever from the X Factor were joined by boy band Re Connected and Santa to switch on the lights.
Denise Valente from Wilmslow Business Group has said special arrangements have been made to coincide with strikes around the town on Wednesday.
The ice rink will be open from 10am to 8pm and Santa's Grotto at the Romany Caravan from 10am to 5pm.
See this week's Express for more.
