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.
21. Maghera switch-on
Enjoying the lighting up fun in Maghera. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
22. Maghera switch-on
There was plenty of fun for children at the Maghera Christmas lighting-up event. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
23. Maghera switch-on
There was a big crowd in Maghera for the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council
24. Maghera switch-on
Santa and the Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Dominic Molloy, switch on the Maghera Christmas lights. Photo: Mid Ulster District Council