THE lights were officially switched on yesterday and the town is looking beautiful.

The Square was packed with people who turned out to join the Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne when she switched on the festive lights in Kerry’s capital town to launch the 2017 Christmas Spraoi in Tralee.

Everyone was in a celebratory mood, especially the Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Norma Foley who took part in the event.

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The Square was lit up but the lights extend to street around the town and Denny Street is especially looking spectacular from the Ashe Memorial Hall down to The Pikeman monument.

John Drummey got a real festive atmosphere going in the Square with dancing and giveaways before Jennifer and Norma pulled down the switch to light up the town.

The President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Aidan Kelly, said: “Tralee is most famous for being the home of the Rose of Tralee International Festival and we were particularly honoured to welcome the 2017 Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne back to switch on the town’s wonderful Christmas lights. This Christmas we are encouraging shoppers and party-goers to support local businesses when spending money on gifts or entertainment this Christmas.

“There isn’t a retailer, hotelier, restaurateur, publican, or attraction provider in Tralee who won’t go the extra mile to ensure that the Christmas experience for locals and visitors is the most memorable ever.

“The business community in Tralee, from the town centre to Manor West Retail Park, will push the boat (or sleigh) out to meet the needs of shoppers and party-goers throughout the festive season. Tralee is the perfect destination for shopping trips offering a range of major brands, individual family owned stores, with free parking and hundreds of dining options,” said Aidan. Scroll down for photos…