The Boys’ Brigade and Loretto Pipe Bands provided musical entertainment, with the torchlight parade, accompanied by local cadets who carry real flame torches, leaving the Old Town Hall on High Street at 6pm.
The procession was led by Santa, on his Cycling Without Age trishaw, along with his elves. Frosty the snowman also turned up to hand out sweets.
On arrival outside The Brunton, a carol service was held. Local clergy told a story about the meaning of Christmas and the Clark Community Choir led everyone in singing On a Starry Night, Away in a Manger and Silent Night.
The lights were officially switched on by the young cast members, some of whom were Musselburgh Grammar School pupils, and children present were invited to collect a selection box.
Jacqueline Campbell, community council chairperson, said: “The weather was great and there was a very festive atmosphere with the Boys’ Brigade and Loretto Pipe Bands all looking and sounding the part for the occasion.”
She added: “Kenny Stitt kept everyone going with his startling repartee. The townspeople came out to watch and it was a great community event.
“There were plenty selection boxes for all and I’ll drop the remainder off to the foodbank.”
Mrs Campbell thanked Irene Tait, her predecessor, who gave a final ‘thank you’ speech, for her many years of service on the community council. She highlighted some of the projects Mrs Tait had been involved in achieving, including floodlights, sculptures, benches and clocks around the town.
“We are very grateful to Rotary, Old Musselburgh Club, Honest Toun’s Association, Iain Blair, Helen Stark, Ian Henderson, Donna Sluggett, Ian Wilson, Iain Clark and Stuart Baxter, and The Brunton security and caretaker, who all pulled together to make a fantastic last torchlight for Irene,” said Mrs Campbell.
The switch-on event was sponsored by James Scott Funeral Director.
The Brunton was the usual venue for the annual panto but, as the building is now closed after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered, performances are being staged at Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh and the Corn Exchange in Haddington.