WATCH: Inverness kicks off festive season as Miss Scotland switches on Highland Hospice Christmas tree
The Highland capital has officially started the countdown to Christmas today with a day of celebrations leading to the switch on of the Falcon Square tree.
With Christmas lights shining over Inverness city centre, many gathered to witness the ceremony in front of the Eastgate Shopping centre.
Newly-crowned Miss Scotland, Chelsea Allison, said it was a honour for her to be tasked with switching on the Christmas tree in her hometown.
"Christmas, is my favourite time of the year, I never thought I would turn on the Christmas lights, especially in my hometown, it's such a honour. Hopefully I can do it again in the future!"
Chelsea is also an ambassador for the Highland Hospice.
She said: "The Highland Hospice mean so much to me. It's a charity that I had to unfortunately encounter in the past with family members going in there before. It's not a nice experience to go through that but the care of the Highland Hospice give to all their patients is amazing and the perfect charity to raise money for."
She will soon head to India to compete for the Miss World title.
The event was brought in partnership between Highland Hospice, Highland Council and Eastgate Centre.
The switch on was the cherry on top of a day with live performances, carols and entertainment for all the family.
Another festive event was also held at UHI Inverness in aid of Maggie's Highland.
Highland Hospice Head of Income, Andrew Leaver said “Now in its fifth year, the Falcon Square tree is a true collaborative effort. Sponsored by Cairngorm Group and erected and lit with the support of Capstone Construction, Paterson Haulage and the Eastgate Centre, the tree forms the centre piece of our annual Light up the Highlands appeal. This year seeing it lit as the climax to the Council’s fabulous street lighting switch-on will add an extra dimension to what is already a treasured part of Inverness’ Christmas celebrations."
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