Old Harbour Christmas tree lights up amidst low turnout

However, for those who showed up last night, witnessing the occasion was in no way less of a spectacle compared to other times.

Tree will stay lit until about January 2, 2020. 

The historic traditional event takes place across many Jamaican towns and cities, signalling the official start to the festive season.

The decades-old ritual is one many citizens and businesses anticipate as streets are kept abuzz throughout the night and into the wee hours of the morning. But not this time around as many locals stay away or pack up early once the excitement dissipated.

Here are a few photo highlights from Peter Simmonds/Mystic5 Multimedia Services.