THE Christmas season was kicked off in style at a special event on Saturday.
Festival Park in Ebbw Vale attracted crowds of people who waited for Santa to arrive on his sleigh with his real reindeers.
X-factor contestant Russell Jones from Sebastopol was on hand to entertain the crowds with songs from Jungle Book.
There were also donkey rides and an open top bus which featured Christmas themed mascots.
Gareth Thomas, general manager at Festival Park, said: “ It was our best Christmas launch to date. Christmas and Santa have arrived.”
The Santa’s grotto at the shopping centre was officially opened on the day and will be open on Thursdays between 3.30pm to 6.30pm, Saturdays from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 11am. to 4.30pm.
The Grotto will also be open on the December 22 and 23 from 10am to 5pm and Christmas Eve 11am to 3pm.
Entry to the grotto is £2.50 which includes a gift.
Find out more at festivalshopping.co.uk.
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