Seasonal fun returns to Swansea this weekend with the return of the Christmas Parade and Waterfront Winterland.
Both events have been arranged to combine with others to generate a festive atmosphere and boost footfall in the city centre.
Waterfront Winterland opens up at 10am on Sunday November 15 and will feature in the grounds of the National Waterfront Museum until January 3.
The Admiral ice-rink is again included as well as the 44-metre high Admiral giant wheel, the traditional carousel, Santa’s Grotto, the Snow Storm ride and a range of stalls and refreshments.
A Wales first mini ice-rink for children called Rocky’s Rink has also been added to this year’s line-up thanks to Swansea Council’s road safety team.
Live entertainment will take place at the attraction every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and other new Waterfront Winterland features for 2009 include a covered spectator area for the ice-skating.
The annual Christmas Parade will see Santa Claus leading a variety of floats and a walking procession through the city centre from 5pm on Sunday November 15 to celebrate the start of the festive season and the switch-on of the city centre’s Christmas lights.
Eight decorated floats will leave the Guildhall at 5pm and make their way through a one and a half hour route of the city centre to the Dylan Thomas Centre.
Cllr Graham Thomas, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: “It’s hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner once again but the variety and range of events and attractions being organised means we’ve got a fantastic atmosphere to look forward to.
“The Christmas Parade and Waterfront Winterland have become key parts of our annual festivities and their return effectively marks the start of the festive season build-up.
“We’re confident the variety of entertainment will make this Christmas more memorable than ever.”
Sue Longthorn, Admiral MD, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the parade for a third year. It’s such a festive night and a wonderful way to start off the Christmas season- and the floats are always amazing.”
A series of road closures is being put in place on the day of the parade (Sunday November 15).
The closures will be phased except for the Guildhall Road North that will be closed from 11am.
Rolling closures are set to take place from 4.30pm to 7pm along Guildhall Road North, St Helens Crescent, Guildhall Road South, St Helens Road, The Kingsway, College Street, Castle Street, Castle Bailey Street, Caer Street, Wind Street, Somerset Place and East Burrows Road.
Advance signage will advise users of road closure details and the closures will be lifted as soon as it’s safe to do so.
Have a look at www.swanseachristmas.com for more information.
