A seven-metre Christmas tree topped with a gold star has been erected in Junction Court to get locals into the festive spirit with only six weeks to go before celebrations start.

Garlands and lights have been installed along the main streets of Nowra and Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash officially lit up the streets on Monday night.

The CBD Promotions Committee, which worked on putting the decorations together, said it hoped to make locals feel like they were walking through a mini Christmas wonderland.

Cr Alan Baptist said the display was an impressive one and something for the locals to be proud of.

On Saturday, November 16 a special Santa spectacular has also been arranged to celebrate the tree’s installation. 

Santa will arrive at 11am in Junction Court with a flash mob and then he will welcome local children at Stockland Nowra for Santa photos.

Shoalhaven Business Chamber general manager Jennifer Stewart said the committee had been quite successful in attracting people back to the city centre.

“Last year Mayor Jo Gash mentioned she wanted more emphasis put into Christmas and we looked into it,” said Ms Stewart.

“The lights and the tree look fantastic and it’s a real drawcard to attract people back to the CBD.”