The Swansea Christmas Parade will return on Sunday, November 22, from 5pm, with a procession of community groups, festive floats, performers and Santa Claus.
Parade route and highlights
The parade will follow the route introduced last year, beginning at the Guildhall, where Santa will start proceedings with a festive lighting display and fireworks. It will then travel along St Helen's Road, through The Kingsway, across College Street, along Castle Street and Caer Street, finishing on Princess Way.
More than 40 local organisations, schools and community groups will take part, with fairytale characters, comic book heroes and Santa and Mrs Claus on their sleigh. Live entertainment will take place on two stages, at the Guildhall and outside the Dragon Hotel, before Santa switches on Swansea's Christmas lights. The evening will end with a fireworks display.
Festive activities and award recognition
The parade is part of a wider programme of festive activities, including Swansea Winter Wonderland with its ice rink and alpine-themed bar, and the Christmas Market offering gifts, crafts and seasonal treats.
Last year, the parade won 'event of the year (local authority)' at the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Awards. Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart said: "The award-winning Swansea Christmas Parade is one of the highlights of the year and a fantastic opportunity for communities, residents and visitors to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season."
Stewart added: "Every year the event creates a wonderful atmosphere across the city centre, and we're looking forward to welcoming thousands of people to enjoy an evening packed with festive entertainment, community spirit and Christmas magic. Alongside returning favourites, we're especially excited to unveil a brand-new parade float this year, which we think families are going to love. We'll keep the details under wraps for now, but anyone who's ever dreamed of reaching infinity and beyond should make sure they don't miss it."
