THOUSANDS descended on Galashiels at the weekend to join in the festive celebrations around the town.
Visitors were spoilt for choice as they were treated to two festive markets as well as plenty of musical entertainment, fairground rides and the chance to meet Father Christmas, thanks to the community council and local Rotary Club.
As part of its monthly market, the organisers of the Heartland Market – founded by Emily McGowan, Esther McLuckie, and Lauren Jamieson – decided to extend its offering, having stalls open until 4pm and also running an additional event on Sunday (December 3).
The Heartland Market welcomed between five and six thousand people to its stalls across the weekend.
On behalf of the Heartland Market, Emily said: "Thank you to everyone, we really appreciated all the support we get.
"We've been blown away by the whole weekend.
"Saturday was so busy, some of the stalls sold out before 12pm, and they had prepared more [of their stock] for the day as well."
Emily added that they had been "nervous" about holding a Sunday market as many shops tend to close for the day and the high street can get quieter.
However, the Heartland team were pleasantly surprised to find themselves still busy with people travelling from all over to visit the market.
Down at the square in Market Street there were other traders for the Galashiels Rotary Club Christmas Market.
As well as providing more businesses from which to buy Christmas gifts and treats, the Rotary Club also made sure to bring their special guest to the town.
Taking a breaking from his visits around the area, Santa spent time in the town, saying hello and taking photos before taking a ride in his sleigh.
A Rotary Club spokesperson said: "A huge thank you to everyone involved with our Christmas market yesterday and for making it the success it was.
"Special thanks to the volunteer team who set up and took down the gazebos.
"The guys from Gala in Bloom, Chris Bell from CBC Repairs and Services for transport and to new volunteers, friends and family who are always there in the background helping out.
"Final thanks to the crafters who took part, we hope you and had a successful day and will return next year."
For more photos from the Christmas markets, click through our picture gallery above.
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