IT was a miserable, wet afternoon on Saturday in Tralee, but for some strange reason, the rain managed to stay away at just the right times.

At 2pm, the rain stopped for the CH Santa parade, so children could meet the man himself and all the other guests including Mrs Claus, the elves, Anna and Elsa and many more.

Continued below…

Then it rained again for a while. Then it stopped. Just in time then for Kieran Donaghy to come out in the Square to help switch on the Christmas lights with Emma Lynch from Caherleaheen NS, who won a competition for the honour pf pulling the lever.

There was a big crowd present to witness John Drummey deliver the countdown to see the Christmas tree being lit up by Kieran (with the help of six-month old daughter Lola Rose) and Emma, before the heavens opened 10 seconds later and the crowds scarpered for cover.

Considering the forecast, it was a great afternoon and sets up a fantastic festive month ahead in town.