Manchester’s fabulous festive parade is back on December 3

Even bigger than last year, with more than 400 participants, on December 3 the parade will weave its way through the city streets, starting at 1 pm from Manchester Cathedral and taking in Deansgate, St Ann’s Street, Cross Street, Corporation Street and Fennel Street, where the parade will end.

Snow queens, bouncing elves and sparkling Christmas glitter belles, with an extra sprinkle of candy cane stilt walkers and giant nutcracker characters, will join everyone’s Christmas dinner favourite Dancing Sprouts.

Of course, no Christmas parade would be complete without the big man himself and we’re on a promise from Santa Claus that he will definitely be taking some time out from his busy toy-making schedule to come to his favourite Christmas city and join in.

Adding to the festive fun this year’s parade also features local school children who have taken part in ‘make and move’ workshop sessions to design and create some incredible parade-worthy Christmas trees and stars to show off in the parade using all the moves they’ve learned.

The Manchester Christmas Parade is expected to last up to an hour from start to finish. There will be an accessible viewing point for anyone who needs it outside Boots on Cross Street – with spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Heart warming

Councillor Pat Karney said: “Last year’s very first Manchester Christmas Parade really was the heart-warming event of the season.  It was one of the best things we’ve ever done with such a brilliant festive and fun atmosphere, full of the stuff that Christmas memories are made of.

“We all know Manchester does Christmas better than anyone else and we can’t wait for this year’s parade – it’s going to be amazing and joyful, one for all the family.  Santa has already said he wouldn’t miss it for all the world. Come on down and join us!”