A husband and wife morris dancing team switched on the Christmas lights in front of excited families in Sheringham last night.
The white illuminations decorated shops along the high street and for the first year extended to the promenade.
Eileen and Steve Brown, 69 and 64, from West Runton, who switched on the lights, were members of the disbanded Lobster Potties morris dancing group.
The Sheringham group donated £5,000 towards the lights committee.
Mr Brown said he and his wife felt a bit shocked and embarrassed to turn on the lights.
He said: 'Instead of the money just sitting there, we wanted to give something back to the town.'
The couple were joined by Sheringham town crier Tony Nelson and mayor Tricia Brooks.
Before the switch-on children could meet Father Christmas.
Entertainment included carols from Sheringham Primary School children, music from Sheringham Salvation Army band and adults dressed up as penguins.
Switch-on co-ordinator Paul Starling, manager of Starlings Toymaster in Sheringham, said: 'The switch-on gets everybody in the Christmas mood, highlights the shops and keeps trade in the town. The lights look good too.'
The event was organised by Sheringham Carnival Committee, made up of volunteers.
A trio of prizes were also given out on the night for the best Christmas window display.
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