Stonehaven was lit up to begin the festive season on Saturday as a day of fun activities concluded with a parade and the switching on of the Christmas Lights.
There was a fun fair ride available around the town, while Santa made an appearance in the town square with his sleigh in the early afternoon.
Stonehaven Business Association (SBA) ensured that shops and eateries all set up Christmas window displays for passers by.
Staff members were also urged to turn up dressed as a fairytale character.
Chairwoman of SBA, Chris Stirk, commented: “It was a great day and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
“All the organisations involved set up a display for people to enjoy but not all staff members fancied a costume.”
SBA also arranged special promotional discounts from businesses in the town.
Later on, a torch-lit costume parade featured Porridge the Donkey – the mascot of Aberdeen Brooke Supporters Group – alongside numerous other local organisations.
These included the Stonehaven Pipe Band, Kids Act, Land Train, the Stonehaven After School Club, the Stonehaven Beavers and the Trybe.
After the parade, the Christmas lights were switched on.
The tree was supplied by Aberdeenshire Council.
There was live music after the switch-on from several local artists, including Whodoozethyr, Gary Anderson and Amy Sawers.
There were chestnuts and soup supplied by the Stonehaven Lions Club and mulled wine and mince pies from the Rotary Club.
The festive fun in Stonehaven is far from over, however.
There will be showing of Space Odyssey: The Pantomime in the town hall from December 10 to 13.
Mrs Stirk said “This event is a sellout every year.
“It has not yet sold out so hurry up if you want tickets.”
Later on there will be sled dog rides at the town’s Baird Park, on December 20 and 21.