A colourful, joy-filled celebration will take over the city centre in a number of weeks
Liverpool ONE’s annual Christmas take over will begin in the middle of November
A massive parade is taking over Liverpool city centre to kickstart the Christmas countdown. Dancing toys, dazzling decorations and twinkling lights will fill the streets of Liverpool ONE as the shopping destination aims to get everyone in the festive spirit.
Taking place on Saturday, November 15, more than 100 children will take centre stage to start the season at the shopping destination. The Toy Parade will be created and produced by outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank and will bring “toy soldiers, a robot, a larger-than-life Christmas tree and a sugar plum fairy to life, delighting the crowds with colour and movement”.
Alice Carter, producer at Walk the Plank, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the Toy Parade to life at Liverpool ONE – a colourful, joy-filled celebration bursting with creativity, dance and festive magic.
“Working with Claire House and local young performers makes it all the more special. Involving over 100 children will bring incredible energy and authenticity to the performances.”
Liverpool ONE’s annual Christmas take over is returning
A group of children and young adults from Claire House Children’s Hospice will join the parade of giant toys, showcasing a collection of props and decorations they have handmade for the occasion. Their creations in the parade will showcase the imagination and spirit of children supported by the hospice.
Claire House provides specialist care and support to seriously and terminally ill babies, children and young adults from across the region, offering end-of-life care and vital respite and comfort to families during their most challenging times.
Jennifer Hanely, a fundraiser at Claire House, said: “As Liverpool ONE’s Charity of the Year we are very excited to be involved in the Toy Parade. Some of the children who come to the hospice have made their own decorations and can’t wait to show them off.
People in Liverpool city centre for the Christmas sales(Image: Liverpool Echo)
“The money raised at the event and throughout the partnership will help us reach more local children who desperately need our support from our sites in Liverpool and the Wirral.”
Ahead of the Christmas Toy Parade, the festive spirit lands in the city as visitors will enjoy Christmas lights and decorations across Liverpool ONE from Friday, November 7.
Returning to Liverpool ONE as part of this is the 25-metre tall Christmas tree on Chavasse Park, the giant bauble on Paradise Street, Bar Hütte, and the family rides up in the park.
Bar Hütte in Chavasse Park(Image: Bar Hütte)
From Thursday, November 20, in the run-up to Christmas, Liverpool ONE will host “magical moments” every Thursday evening. Highlights include illuminated penguins, carol-oke and pass the parcel.
Liverpool ONE’s Donna Howitt said: “The countdown to Christmas is upon us and we’re looking forward to transforming Liverpool ONE into the city’s very own Christmas hub, brimming with festive sparkle and community spirit.
“This year’s celebrations promise to be extra special, as we’ve invited Claire House Children’s Hospice to join in the celebrations. This is a charity that is truly synonymous with our region and does fantastic work for families when they need it most.
“As we head into the busiest time of the year for most of our brands, we are excited to bring a packed magical programme at the heart of the city for the whole family.”