Tamworth christmas: Santa Claus visits city for installation of Fitzroy Plaza Christmas tree

And, despite a few naughty indiscretions, that list includes Tamworth Regional Council acting mayor Phil Betts.

Looking especially jolly, Mr Claus made a special trip from the North Pole to Tamworth to light the Christmas tree in Fitzroy Plaza on Wednesday before he hopped back in his sleigh to race back to the toy workshop.

"I've been very busy thank you, and with COVID-19 obviously this time of year we want to make it a big rejoicing time for all the kids and families to get together and celebrate as best they can," he said.

"It's a time to be very, very happy and kind to each other all throughout the world after the difficult times we've had, it's time to be happy and rejoice.

"It's been a great time for families to bond, excited to come together and enjoy this beautiful town."

Usually, the plaza is filled with plenty of smiling faces and entertainment for the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Instead, this year the budget will go toward bringing an extra sparkle to Peel Street this silly season.

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Residents can expect the main drag to look a little bit brighter and more festive this year, Cr Betts said.

"The elves haven't given us the timeframe yet," he said.

"What I'm asking for Christmas is for the Tamworth regional community, NSW and the nation to get back to a normal situation where people can get back to their normal lives, create jobs and business prosperity.

"We've seen an event that has really shattered a lot of families and it's a time that the community and families can get together to have some family time."

Cr Betts reminded the community about the Stay Regional, Shop Regional Tamworth gift card campaign to support local business this Christmas.