Ed Balls tried to teach Santa some Gangnam Style moves. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
The former shadow chancellor entertained the crowd with some of his famous dance moves before flicking the switch on the lights which was quickly followed by fireworks from Norwich City Hall and the roof of Jarrold.
Thousands braved the cold weather as Christmas started in Norwich. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Alongside the Christmas lights there was Santa's colourful parade from Norwich Cathedral, accompanied by carol singers, entertainment from a host of performers and the finale, a projected festive light show set to music on City Hall.
People waited outisde Norwich City Hall for Ed Balls to appear. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Katie Passarelli, 36, a full- time mum from Norwich who comes to the light switch on every year, said: 'It was a really nice night; we had a lot of fun. We are definitely in the Christmas spirit!'
Ed Balls entertained the crowds with some dancing. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Mother and daughter Louise and Grace Webster said they 'really loved the archway' along Hay Hill. Louise said: 'It was jam packed, but it's so pretty'.
Santa struggled to master Gangnam Style with Ed Balls. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
And District Explorer Scout Commissioner, Carl Meadows and his Explorers unit had a very special night as three members were lucky enough to have their investiture in the tunnel of light. He said: 'It's been a brilliant night.'
It was Ed Balls's job to turn on the Norwich Christmas lights. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
• Scroll through our photos from last night to see if you can spot yourself.
Fireworks followed Ed Balls turning on the Norwich Christmas lights. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
The crowds outside Norwich City Hall loved the fake snow. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Fireworks were launched from Norwich City Hall. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Festive scenes were projected onto Norwich City Hall. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
The 60-metre long tunnel of light on Hay Hill. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Framtastics Gymnastics peformed on stage . Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Dressed in blue Framtastics Gymnastics wowed the crowds. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
People of all ages turned out to watch the Norwich Christmas lights being switched on. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
There were lots of performers outside Norwich City Hall. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
On eyoung girl sings on the stage outside Norwich City Hall. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
People take a selfie with a giant Christmas pudding. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Photos were the main port of call for many people. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
There was a lot of different acts at the Norwich Christmas lights switch on. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
The countdown for the Norwich Christmas lights. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
People getting their phones ready for Ed Balls. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Christmas projections on Norwich Castle. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
The band were playing Christmas songs. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Crowds enjoying the tunnel of lights. Picture: Matthew Usher. (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2016)
Giant elves were spotted around the city. Photo by Denise Burrows (Image: Denise Burrows)
Giant elves were spotted around the city. Photo by Denise Burrows (Image: Denise Burrows)
Giant elves were spotted around the city. Photo by Denise Burrows (Image: Denise Burrows)
Giant elves were spotted around the city. Photo by Denise Burrows (Image: Denise Burrows)
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