More than 600 people gathered in the car park at the Thunderdome Cafe to greet Santa, Postman Pat and Mayor John Scott as they arrived to turn on the town's Christmas lights.
Despite the cold and windy conditions, the young and not so young enjoyed the festive fun, which included carol singing and live music from Hullaballoo and Ballyduff Silver Band.
"It was absolutely great," alderman Scott said after the event. "Everyone really enjoyed it. I had parents coming up to me saying how good it had been and how much their children enjoyed it all. It just goes to show that you don't have to get TV stars to come over for these events to be a great success."
Meanwhile, the festive excitement will continue this weekend when Scooby Doo hits the Square in Ballyclare to switch on the town's Christmas lights.
Joined by the Mayor and the famous Mystery Machine, Scooby Doo will arrive at 5.30pm on Saturday (November 28) to officially kick off the festive season and switch on the lights. Entertainment begins at 4pm with live entertainment from Citybeat radio and local band 'King Creole featuring Kandi Luv'. At 5pm, a short programme of Christmas readings, carols and music will take place.
For further details about the council's full Christmas events programme telephone 9034 0208 or log on to www.newtownabbey.gov.uk