MAYOR June Hughes resorted to horse and sledge when she switched on the Christmas lights in the High Street.
Hundreds of people, including Father Christmas, braved the muddy recreation ground to see the throwing of the switch as the Thornden School Band from Chandler's Ford performed carols.
There was a colourful fireworks display from the Eastleigh Town Centre Group of businesses and a fun fair for children.
This year more than 2km of lights sparkle around the recreation ground and through the town shopping streets.
Eastleigh council's Local Area Committee funded the illuminations and acknowledged them as one of the best in the area.
Committee chairman, Cllr Steve Sollitt said the town's reputation for its festive display is well known to both visitors and residents.
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