Aberdeen Christmas Village lived up to the true spirit of the season on Tuesday when more than 500 specially-invited revellers enjoyed a magical community Festive Fun Day.
Those enjoying all the thrills and excitement of the sparkling attraction on and around Broad Street were from a range of community groups, north-east charities, schools and people with additional needs.
The Festive Fun Day, supported by village organisers Aberdeen Inspired, Aberdeen City Council and Codona’s, offered a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere to groups and individuals who might otherwise find it difficult to access the village.
Some of the schools and charities taking part included St Machar Academy, Sunnybank, Northfield Academy, Charlie House, All Life Chances Aberdeen, Befriend A Child, Team Jak - Jak's Den, We Too!, Home Start, AFC Community Trust and AberNecessities.
The visitors enjoyed unlimited rides on the many attractions at the Christmas Village, as well as a session on the enchanting open-air ice rink.
Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “The joy of Christmas is something to be shared by everyone and the Festive Fun Day helps to make sure no one misses out on the glittering magic of Aberdeen Christmas Village.
“The reward for everyone involved in making this heart-warming event happen is to see the smiling faces and hear the laughter of those having the time of their lives, who might otherwise have found the village a challenge to enjoy.
“Aberdeen Inspired is proud to be part of the team that made this a festive day to remember for so many people.”
• Proud to be part of Festive Fun Day at Aberdeen Christmas Village are, Gillian Gallan, general manager of Codona's, Lara Munro of All Life Chances, Lord Provost of Aberdeen Dr David Cameron, Phionna McInnes of We Too!, Susan Crighton of All Life Chances, and Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired. Image - Aberdeen Inspired.
The Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron said: “It’s wonderful to see the return of the Festive Fun Day and welcome school groups and charities from across Aberdeen to our Christmas Village.
“This special day will allow for children and young people to enjoy a magical festive day out with their friends and family members.”
Gillian Gallan, general manager of Codona’s said: "The Festive Fun Day is such an important part of the Christmas Village. To be able to provide an opportunity for guests to experience the fun of the village and for families to make lasting memories together is a privilege for everyone involved.
“This year's event has been organised in partnership with the teams from two local charities - We Too! And All Life Chances; special thanks to Phionna McInnes, Susan Crighton and Lara Munro who have all helped us in organising and bringing this incredible day to the local community."
Organised by John Codona’s Pleasure Fairs on behalf of Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen Inspired, the village will remain in place on Broad Street until December 31.
Curated In The Square, the popular festive market that is part of the Christmas Village, will each weekend from Friday to Sunday, until December 21.
You can find out more about the Aberdeen Christmas Village and Curated In The Square here.