Wool-clad shoppers wrapped against the chill crowd into Brighton’s streets in the middle of November, eagerly awaiting the first twinkle of Christmas lights.

Every year the event kick-starts the season and, despite a chill in the air, the atmosphere is warm with festive cheer.

Shops open late, there are plenty of sweet treats to tuck into and there are often characters and designs to delight the visitors.

Now known as the Brilliant Brighton Christmas lights, this year’s free event on November 13 in East Street was brought to life by live performances by The Sleigh Belles, The Theatre Workshop and a surprise headline act, X Factor stars Kingsland Road.

In 2012, the city’s launch into Christmas attracted national attention when a video appearing to show rude images and cheeky messages hidden in the lights became an internet hit.

The funny footage posted on satirical site The Poke claimed it was the work of a disgruntled electrician who installed lights in Churchill Square and Western Road, although many said it was a spoof designed to make people smile.

There has been a tradition of musical entertainment with surprise appearances from stars over the years.

In 2011, lights were turned on by the cast of hit musical Spamalot, including EastEnders star Todd Carty. The show was the festive offering at Theatre Royal Brighton that year. Entertainment was also provided by Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus.

In 2006, engineers in Ardingly attracted attention when they went to extra lengths to created a dazzling display. In Wakehurst Place a spider’s web of lights was hung from trees, with staff hoisting themselves into the air to secure the electrics.

In 2002, the North Laine Association decided to illuminate the iconic shopping district with the help of the council and a giant switch.

Amanda Shepherd, head of tourism at Brighton and Hove City Council at the time, helped Peter Stocker, of the association, with the grand switch on in Gardner Street, pictured inset.

Festive helper Julie Elliott captured the Christmas spirit when she turned up for the light switch-on in 1987. She set the scene in her Santa-inspired dress and coal-coloured patent stilettos by the Brighton Clock Tower in a picture captured by Simon Dack.

The cars at traffic lights behind Ms Elliott help to date the photo.

The Palace Pier was also captured in all its glory, with a shining Christmas tree outside the entrance and neatly arranged lights along its roof, making it look smart and elegant.

The clock tower is a popular haunt for eye-catching lights in North Street and in 1981 the festive display was also captured, standing out proudly amid the lights and surrounded by traffic.

The scene in 1950s Western Road is one of the most striking and artistic shots we’ve included here.

It transports you back to an era often depicted in classic Christmas films and looks like a scene out of the original Miracle On 34th Street or A Wonderful Life.

Lights are dotted down the street, hung from buildings, while each lamp post features its own unique figurine on top depicting the season.

There are designs of Father Christmas sat astride his sleigh, angels, figures from the nativity scene and animals such as elephants holding festive items.