Swansea Festive Switch-on - all you need to know

Thousands are expected in Swansea City Centre this afternoon for the annual Christmas Parade

The council is encouraging those planning to attend to check the arrangements, plan ahead, aim to arrive in good time for the start – and spread out along the route to help curb the spread of Covid.

Diversions

Changes for road traffic will include diversions away from roads such as Quay Parade, Oystermouth Road, Princess Way, High Street, Orchard Street and The Kingsway

Festivities are due to take place from 5pm, with parking available at a number of locations including city centre car parks.

Changes for road traffic will include diversions away from roads such as Quay Parade, Oystermouth Road, Princess Way, High Street, Orchard Street and The Kingsway.

Victoria Road and Quay Parade will be temporarily closed in both directions from New Cut Road to Princess Way from around 4pm until the parade has passed.

Diversions will be signposted.

Free buses

Free buses will be running for everyone to use, as part of the council’s #FreeRideSwansea winter free rides offer.

Park & Rides will operate this Sunday at Fabian Way and Landore from 11am to around 8.30pm, with both dropping customers to Swansea Railway Station. Cost per vehicle - for up to four people - is £1.

During the event there will be loud noises, flashing lights and special effects. Those who need somewhere quieter are advised to watch it at the St Helen’s Road end of The Kingsway or at the top of High Street and Orchard Street. An accessible viewing area will be available on Princess Way and Orchard Street.

Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said:

“The Christmas countdown for Swansea really does start here!

“This year’s parade - another free event provided by the council - promises to be another great spectacle. We ask everybody to help keep themselves and others safe by keeping their distance wherever possible and spreading out along the length of the parade route. If you’re feeling unwell, please avoid attending the event. “

The parade and Christmas lights switch-on will follow a similar format to the 2019 event.

The parade will start at Princess Way, making its way to Castle Square where Santa will – from his sleigh - switch on some of the city centre’s Christmas lights. The parade will continue up High Street, down Orchard Street and onto the Kingsway, where Santa will switch on the rest of the Christmas lights, before the parade ends at the western end of The Kingsway.

Two large Christmas trees will be lit up – one at the top of Castle Square and one outside The Dragon Hotel. Presenters from the parade’s media partners, The Wave, will be on stages near the Christmas trees, keeping the crowds entertained and informed.

Covid passes not required - mask wearing advisory

Noise and lights will be present throughout. Covid passes are not required - this type of event is exempt. Mask wearing is not compulsory but is advisory in areas where there are a number of people congregating.