Ljubljana became aglow with 64 kilometres of Christmas lights to the thrill of a big crowd that gathered for the occasion in Prešeren Square in the heart of the capital.

The city artist Zmago Modic added some new additions to his universe-themed decoration which he dubbed the Begging of Time.

A new feature this year is the decoration of Trubarjeva street with umbrella-shaped lamps, while the Zvezda park is as magic as every year with big fairy-shaped lanterns crafted by children from local primary schools.

A Christmas fair already got under way in the morning on the banks of Ljubljanica, in Prešeren and Congress squares.

Running until 1 January, the Christmas season in Ljubljana will feature a variety of events catering to various types of visitors, including St Nicholas' and Father Christmas' parades.

The Ljubljana municipality earmarked EUR 113,000 for the festive events, and another EUR 166,000 for decorations.