Katoomba and Everglades in Leura were transformed into magical kingdoms of wonder and fantasy, where you could catch up with a pirate or a princess or become one yourself.

In fact, there is a good chance that the friendly witch you talked to at lunchtime could have been your next door neighbour!

The range of zany characters and colourful creatures in Katoomba Street on festival Saturday was only limited by the furthest reaches of the imagination.

And one of the largest turnouts in Winter Magic Festival history soaked it all up.

There was a smorgasbord of entertainment options this year for ghosts and goblins of all ages.

Early risers became active members of the audience at 702 ABC Sydney's live morning broadcast from Carrington Place and listened to the outstanding massed community choir, conducted by Rachel Hore.

It was great to see Carrington Place alive and kicking all day and into the night with live music and theatre.

Highlights by day included dynamic performance by youth circus act Circo Blurto, a speed chess tournament and the swinging Blue Mountains City and Penrith Valley Big Bands.

At night, a fireworks display coloured the sky and the rhythms of Club Matoto and Heart Hands and Feet moved people into a tribal frenzy.

The Grand Parade was made up of a cast of thousands and its success was demonstrated by the number of smiles on children's faces.

Other highlights on Saturday were the Ruby Bloomers women's circus on the civic centre stage, Ghawazi Caravan in the Carrington Ballroom, clowns and street performers and jazz and folk at St Hilda's Church.

The festival signed off in spectacular style on Sunday with a magical treasure hunt at Everglades in Leura that had to be seen to be believed.

The famous Leura heritage garden resembled the set of Alice in Wonderland as children led their parents through magical landscapes.

There were clues to be found on every corner, issued by pirates, fairies, knights, wizards and King Midas, who turned everthing he touched into gold.

Winter Magic Festival chairman John Ellison described the weekend as an overwhelming success.

"The festival was a true affirmation of community spirit and good will," Mr Ellison said.

"Winter Magic transformed the towns (Katoomba and Leura) and it is obvious that it is here to stay."

Festival co-ordinator Warren Ross thanked festival committee members, BLU FM and everyone who contributed to make the festival a great success.

"I must make special mention of the Rural Fire Service because we couldn't even consider running the festival without them," he said.

"They arrive before everyone else and leave after the last person has left. We can't thank them enough and we would also like to thank State Rail and local police for their enthusiastic support and co-operation."

Mr Ross said a feedback section has been added to the Winter Magic Festival website (www.wintermagic.com.au/comments) and comments can also be emailed to [email protected].

"We welcome feedback and suggestions on how to make next year's festival even better."