Finely tuned athletes impressive times striding to compete in this year's Queanbeyan Gift but it was the city's first street party in honour of the event that really stole the show on Saturday.
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The family fun kicked off at 6pm on a closed off portion of Crawford Street.
There were plenty of activities from face-painting to a Base-Zero mobile rock-climbing wall as well as appearances from Olympians and event ambassadors Melissa Breen and Lauren Wells.
Restaurants and cafes along the close off street got involved offering outdoor dining for street party-goers.
Julia Wang, who operates 4th Seed with her husband Tim, said the event was a shot in the arm for city traders.
The Wangs were among many business owners and they were among many others who had chosen to extend their opening hours for the night.
"I think people need these kinds of events," she said.
"We took over the shop this year so it a great way for us to participate with the community."
Drumassault and The Fireflies captivated the crowd with a half-hour drum and acrobatics display as the sun started to set.
But for five-year-old Luke Metha and his little brother Jude Baker, x, Santa was the biggest drawcard of the day.
"I gave him a high five but he was too fast at doing high five down low, "he said.
"I want to ask Santa for a big T-Rex Dinobot."
The boy's parents Jo Baker and Chris Metha said their boys had asked to stay until dark and watch the tree come to life.
"It is super-duper exciting and all glowing," Luke said.
Queanbeyan Mayor Tim Overall was joined by Santa at to turn on the Christmas lights on Queanbeyan's first giant six metre tree.
With the start of the silly season officially underway, Queanbeyan celebrated together with Canberra-based cover band Smooth Ops took the stage for a jam-packed two hour set of sing-a-long tunes.
