Manchester Christmas Parade returns this weekend: All you need to know
There are a number of new additions to this year's spectacular event
Manchester is gearing up for the return of its much-loved Christmas Parade this Sunday, 7th December.
The event, now in its fourth year, has become a highlight of the festive season for Mancunians and visitors alike, and promises an afternoon of family-friendly entertainment filled with magic and wonder.
The parade kicks off at 1 pm from Manchester Cathedral following a circular route through the city centre, ending back at the cathedral.
Something new for this year
This year’s parade, sponsored by Quooker, will feature brand-new additions, including the Festive Fantasy Candyland Castle.
At over 4 metres tall and accompanied by dancing candy cane stilt walkers, the rotating turreted castle is sure to captivate young attendees.
Other new features include a mythical dragon, a gigantic Polar Bear, and the dazzling Jack Frost and his troupe of dancers.
Fans of previous parades can also expect returning favourites such as the show-stopping Reindeer Ensemble and the enchanting Snow Queen in her snow globe.
Bringing up the rear of this year's parade will be the Manchester Elf Express, complete with Santa himself on board, hitching a ride to the North Pole alongside his team of elves.
Community involvement
Ten community groups from across Manchester will be taking part in the parade as musicians, dancers, and performers.
Live music will fill the streets with sounds from the Bloco Band, Fianna Phadraig Pipe Band, Fat Cat Brass, and more. Parade-goers will also have the chance to sing along with Elton Wrong, who will perform popular hits and show tunes from his portable stage.
There will be two accessible viewing areas on a first-come basis: one on Cross Street (outside Boots) and another on Deansgate (outside House of Fraser).
Supporting local arts
Manchester City Council has worked with several outdoor arts organisations, including Global Grooves, Walk the Plank, Handmade Parade, and Fools' Paradise, to bring the parade to life.
Councillor Pat Karney, Christmas spokesperson for Manchester City Council, described the event as "the heartwarming event of the season and our special Christmas gift to the city."
Stephen Johnson, Managing Director of Quooker UK & Ireland said: "Manchester is our home, and the Manchester Christmas Parade is one of those rare moments in the year where the whole community comes together to celebrate the joy and spirit of the city."
The parade route starts and ends at Manchester Cathedral:
Manchester Cathedral
Victoria Street
Deansgate
John Dalton Street
Cross Street
Market Street
St Mary's Gate
Deansgate
Victoria Street
Organisers have advised visitors that Cross Street and St Mary's Gate are likely to be the busiest sections to view the parade.
This year’s Manchester Christmas Parade promises to bring festive cheer and magical moments to all who attend. It’s a truly unmissable celebration for the whole family.