THE truly magical night that was the Southend Christmas lights switch on 2023 has been captured in many fantastic snaps.

From famous faces, to exceptional talent in and around the area performing on the main stage in Victoria Circus, to the big switch on moment, the memories made will last a lifetime thanks to these shots.

Scroll down to see more stunning photos from the day.

Echo: Reflecting - giant bauble hanging on the Victoria Circus Christmas tree, by Gaz de Vere

Echo:

Feeling festive - Gaz de Vere's shot of a family enjoying the day

Echo: Group - The Show Choir performing on the main stage, by Newsquest

Echo: Little stars - members of Faces Theatre Arts getting ready to perform to the crowd, by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Lucky - a beautiful shot of a family meeting Santa, by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Eye-catching - Newsquest's picture of street performers

Echo: Delicious - visitors grabbing a bite to eat from the German sausage food stall, by Newsquest

Echo: Cute - little one taking part in the “Spread the Cheer, and Leave as a Reindeer” Christmas trail, where they transformed into reindeer by visiting designated stations in Southend BID zone businesses, by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Gorgeous - mum and daughter wearing reindeer ears while posing for a picture in-front of a Christmas tree, by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Star - Bake Off's Dana Conway on her way to the main stage, by Newsquest

Echo: Star - Married at First Sight's JJ's moment on the main stage captured by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Honour - those responsible for pushing down the plunger to turn on the twinkling lights, by Gaz de Vere

Echo: Turnout - Gaz de Vere showing the huge crowd in the High Street as the lights went on

Echo: Star - Gaz de Vere showing Santa on the main stage as he spoke to the crowd

Echo: Joyous - Southend West MP Anna Firth joined in with the celebrations, by Newsquest