There will be an early white Christmas in Swansea city centre next month thanks to an event that will kick-off the festive season.
A giant, inflatable Santa Claus with snow gushing out of his hat is among the fun features forming part of a Christmas launch party in the pedestrianised area on Saturday November 20 between 10am and 4pm.
The inflatable Santa will also be returning every Saturday afterwards up until December 20.
Children visiting the launch party will have the chance to see Santa’s reindeer making preparations for their festive flight and street dance entertainment is being provided by Groundswell and the Makers of Dance Energy.
Swansea Council and Swansea BID (Business Improvement District) are behind the fun.
Swansea BID is using the event to launch its free Christmas helpers pack and wrap service and a selection of competitions, prizes and giveaways is being arranged.
A live broadcast from the Wave and Swansea Sound is also being organised for the city centre on the day to mark the start of the countdown to Christmas.
Lisa Wells, Swansea City Centre Manager, said: “We’re determined to make Christmas as memorable as possible in Swansea city centre this year and the launch event will generate a wonderful atmosphere.
“People coming to the city centre have a lot to look forward to in the build-up to Christmas thanks to a varied events programme that the launch party will be kick-starting.
“The aim is to get as many people into the city centre as possible to discover its vibrant mix of high street stores, independent traders and indoor market.
“The event will also help build up to the refurbished bus station welcoming its first passengers on December 6.”
Dave Kenny, owner of The Party Shop on Shoppers Walk and Chairman of Swansea BID, said: “Shoppers expect atmosphere and events in the run-up to Christmas and the launch party will help set the right mood.
“Swansea city centre has a lot to offer and we’re determined to encourage people to make return visits in future. This is why events of this nature are so important to traders.”
Other features of Christmas in Swansea include the annual parade and switch-on of the city centre’s Christmas lights on Sunday November 21.
Waterfront Winterland is also returning to the grounds of the National Waterfront Museum from Friday November 19 to Sunday January 9.
Have a look at www.swanseachristmas.com for more information.
