CHRISTMAS has officially arrived in Bournemouth town centre.

Thursday evening saw the launch of the Christmas markets in Bournemouth Square.

The festivities, organised by Seventa Events, kicks off this year’s Christmas celebrations in the town.

Residents and visitors enjoyed a range of stalls selling gifts, clothes and food favourites including Yorkshire pudding wraps, crepes, and Bratwurst.

Simon Brooks, director of Seventa Events, said previously: "We have some fantastic local businesses involved in this event, including the supply of equipment, local retailers, independent makers, and food traders at the Christmas Market, as well as local creatives with our largest-ever line-up of Alpine Lodge events for all ages.

“As a local events company, we love to bring life and activity to Bournemouth over the winter period and always look forward to seeing the festive activities bringing joy to people.

"It is a magical time of year, watching families enjoy the free to attend lights and events.”

The ever-popular Alpine Lodge Bar in the Square also opened its doors on Thursday for the first time this festive season.

The venue attracted long queues of customers looking to grab a mulled wine or a stein of beer.

The Christmas market features more than 40 traders in the Square. 

Market traders include a luxury hot chocolate stall courtesy of Norris & Binglewort of Christchurch, handmade pizzas by Bournemouth restaurateurs El Murrino, craft gifts from local South Coast Makers Market, sweet treats by Bournemouth Brownie Company, and plant-based food made by vegan brand Mighty Weiners.

The Bournemouth Christmas Market will run from 11am daily until January 1.

The Alpine Lodge will be open from 11am to 11pm, food huts from 11am to 10pm and retail huts between 11am and 8pm (7pm on Sundays).

The market's opening came one day ahead of the launch of Bournemouth's Christmas Tree Wonderland on Friday evening.

This year's extravaganza features a new 20-metre-long animated tunnel which leads through the Lower Gardens, as well as the ever popular 60-foot 3D walkthrough tree.

Other new attractions for 2023 include projections from lampposts around the Lower Gardens, a lantern archway and flashing light stems.