Totton came to a standstill as the town's annual lantern parade made its way through the main shopping area.
Hundreds of people lined the main roundabout on Sunday to watch walkers, vehicles and marching bands complete the short journey from the war memorial car park.
Roads were closed just before the start of the parade, which was followed by the switching on of Totton's Christmas lights.
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The procession was headed by Father Christmas, followed by Dolphin Marching Band and a large number of people carrying lanterns they had made themselves.
A US sheriff's car and representatives from several schools in the Totton area, including Hazel Wood and Oakfield, also took part.
It followed an afternoon of family entertainment featuring live music, a funfair, and stalls selling food and drink.
People made their lanterns with the help of Julie Motherwell and Caroline Rackham.
Cllr Rackham said: "Every year we try to do something a bit bigger and better, and this year we have even more big lanterns. It's a lovely start to December and gives us all a chance to feel more Christmassy."
Julie added: "'There's something for everyone to enjoy.
"We've made nearly 500 lanterns with people this year and really looked forward to seeing them all together in the parade."
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