Glasgow's festive season has officially started with annual switch on of the city's Christmas lights.

Over 12,000 people gathered in George Square to see competition winners James Dundas, 3,  and his mum Dawn McFadyen flick the switch.

Within seconds the city centre was once again transformed into a Winter Wonderland.

Crowds gathered in the city from 5pm.

The evening kicked off with live music from Funk Nation before Clyde 1’s George and Knoxy hosted entertainment.

Also present was Michelle McManus, Stephen Purdon, and Shebahn Littlejohn from the Pavilion Theatre’s pantomime The New Magical Adventures of Pinocchio.

Musichoir provided more live music while lively routines from dance groups Y-Dance and The Kennedy Cupcakes helped to keep party-goers warm.

 Glasgow 2014’s mascot, Clyde, got involved too, performing his own routine flanked by his Christmas Dancers.

The Lord Provost, Councillor Sadie Docherty, who oversaw the switch on, said: ‘Once again the event to switch on Glasgow Christmas Lights was a wonderful occasion.

"I had a great night and I’m sure everyone who was fortunate enough to get a ticket would agree that the entertainment on offer was fantastic.

"Overall, I think the night was the perfect way to begin the festive season in the city."

Crowds also gathered in Princes Square where Santa and his reindeer herd turned on the lights. The event was followed by a reindeer parade through the city centre.

Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch on sees the beginning of the Glasgow Loves Christmas programme.

Glasgow on Ice will open to the public at 12noon on Saturday November 23. 

People can skate every day through to the  January 5 2014, with the exception of Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.