Winterval marks the launch of Ireland's biggest Christmas festival in Waterford

The biggest Christmas festival in the country kicked off last night when Santa switched on 100,000 festive lights in Waterford City.

The man himself arrived on horse-drawn sleigh, flanked by some Star Wars cast members and Viking elves who were then joined by Mayor of Waterford John Cummins to declare the annual Winterval festival open. The festival opening was watched by thousands of spectators on the city’s mall.

More than 500,000 visitors are expected to attend the fourth annual Winterval festival which runs until December 23.