Taunton was the home of a three day international event over the weekend sponsored by the local Mecca Bingo club. With the Christmas lights being switched on, Christmas gifts from all over the world, a visit from Santa Clause, live music and fun fair rides, Taunton was certainly the place to be.

On Friday the celebrations began with the return of the three day International Market.

On Saturday 20th November, the town centre will came alive to the thrills and excitement of the Fun Fair. With spine tingling adult rides and family favourites for the children, the Fun Fair was open on Saturday and Sunday

On Sunday 21st November there was a variety of different markets and the town was filled with rock, swing and jive music performances from new local artists. In addition there was a variety of family entertainment from 12pm - 4pm including face painters, balloon modeler, Silver Juggler Statue, Circus Act, and live performances from Taunton Academy plus hot chestnuts a sweet barrow and a hog roast.

Father Christmas made a special visit to the town centre during the afternoon offering families with pre-school and primary age children the opportunity of a horse drawn sleigh ride through the streets of Taunton

In the finale on Sunday evening Father Christmas thrilled the children on stage in front of the Market House. He and the Carnival Royalty were drawn to the Market House in a horse and carriage, to the sounds of the Blackdown Hills Samba Band.

And an added attraction this year was a heliosphere which saw a woman floating above the crowds as two men guided her around.

The show lasted about 15 minutes, the last five minutes of which coincided with the impressive fireworks display.