The day began in the Lurach Centre with Christmas decoration making, face painting and letter writing to Santa, before the man himself settled into the Potting Shed at Maghera Walled Garden to greet a host of excited children.
Friendly elves were on hand to entertain the crowds and the garden was lit up with a spectacular LED display and characters that provided plenty of opportunity for selfies and family festive pictures.
At 5pm Santa was on his way to Hall Street via Fairhill, accompanied by the Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Dominic Molloy, where shortly before 6pm, both carried out the countdown to the switch on of the Christmas lights, kicking off the Christmas festivities in Maghera for 2023.
9. Maghera switch-on
All smiles at the Maghera lighting-up event. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
10. Maghera switch-on
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Dominic Molloy, enjoying Saturday's events in Maghera. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
11. Maghera switch-on
Smiles all round at Maghera. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
12. Maghera switch-on
Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Dominic Molloy, meeting some of the visitors to the Maghera Christmas lights switch-on event. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council