Residents of Llanwrtyd Wells woke up to a festive enigma last week as dozens of vibrant Christmas banners and signs appeared overnight, transforming the town into a winter wonderland through a coordinated, anonymous act of seasonal spirit.

Coming just days after the triumphant return of the Light Up Llanwrtyd parade, which saw the community gather for a spectacular lantern procession and the official switch-on of the town’s lights, the new wave of decorations added an extra layer of magic—and mystery—to the local celebrations.

The high-quality banners, featuring classic holiday imagery including reindeer, North Pole scenes, and jolly Santas, were meticulously placed on fences, railings, and benches throughout the town. From a towering Santa peering over a garden deck to a "North Pole: Santa’s Workshop" sign welcoming visitors, the installations appeared to have been carried out under the cover of darkness with professional precision.

As the town hummed with speculation, the identity of the "Festive Phantoms" remains unknown. In a surprising twist, no local community groups or charitable organisations have come forward to claim responsibility.

A spokesperson for the Light Up Llanwrtyd organising committee expressed both delight and bewilderment at the new additions: "The parade was a massive success and really set the tone for the season, but we were just as surprised as everyone else to see these banners appear," they said. "It wasn't part of our official planning. Whoever is behind it has clearly put a lot of heart and effort into making the town look even more spectacular. It’s a wonderful mystery that has everyone talking."

The signs ranged from whimsical "Santa Stop Here" placards tucked into flower barrels to expansive, illuminated backdrops of the North Pole. One particularly striking banner showed Santa tending to his reindeer along a snowy fence line, while others offered warm "Merry Christmas" greetings to passersby in various festive fonts.

Despite the town’s small size, the secret has been well-kept. Local residents have noted that there was no sign of activity late into the evening, suggesting the "elves" worked in the early hours of the morning to ensure the surprise was ready for the dawn commute.

For now, the people of Llanwrtyd Wells happily embraced the mystery. Whether it is the work of a single benefactor or a secret society of holiday enthusiasts, the anonymous gift has ensured that the "festive cheer" sparked by the recent parade continues to shine brightly across the town.