Aberdeen’s Christmas Parade Set to Sparkle This Sunday
Aberdeen’s highly anticipated Christmas Parade is set to bring a sparkle of festive joy to the Granite City this Sunday, 17th November, promising an evening filled with Christmas cheer, colourful floats, and all the magic of the holiday season. The parade is a staple of the city’s Christmas celebrations, drawing crowds from near and far to take part in the seasonal festivities.
The grand event will kick off at Albyn Place at 5:30 pm, with a line-up of activities starting earlier in the evening. One of the highlights? Santas on scooters, revving up the excitement just after 5:15 pm, shortly followed by the lively Charlie House Santa Fun Run. From the scooters to Santa suits and charity cheer, it’s a festive affair that Aberdeen locals won’t want to miss.
This year’s parade takes a slightly new route, offering fresh sights for parade-goers while maintaining its classic holiday charm. The procession will start at Albyn Place, roll onto Union Terrace, and make its way to His Majesty’s Theatre. Leading the parade will be Aberdeen’s own Lord Provost, Dr. David Cameron, who’s always excited to play a part in the city’s beloved holiday kick-off.
In a special show of Aberdeen’s international friendships, Dr. Cameron will be joined by Deputy Mayor Henrik Halleland from Stavanger, Norway—Aberdeen’s sister city and the generous provider of Aberdeen’s annual Norwegian Christmas tree. This long-standing tradition has seen Stavanger gift a beautiful tree to Aberdeen each year, symbolising the warm ties between the two cities. This year’s tree will stand proudly at Castlegate, adding to the city’s holiday atmosphere.
Dr. Cameron expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “The Christmas parade is one of my favourite events, and one which I look forward to every year. It helps to bring the city together, allowing everyone to share the start of some Christmas magic, as well as helping to illuminate the city centre with some festive sparkle.” He also noted how thrilled he was to be joined by Deputy Mayor Halleland, adding, “It is wonderful that, as one of our twin cities, they have once again gifted us the beautiful Norwegian Christmas tree.”
The Aberdeen Christmas Parade promises something for everyone, with a host of holiday favourites set to make appearances along the route. Santa and Rudolph are the obvious stars of the show, but they’ll be joined by a host of characters and performers, each bringing their own flair to the celebration. Giant nutcracker soldiers, a stately ice king and queen, and plenty of cheeky elves are all ready to delight parade-goers.
Characters from Aberdeen’s panto shows will also join in on the fun, giving attendees a glimpse of the theatrical holiday spirit that’s synonymous with this time of year. Local churches, coming together under the Aberdeen Churches Together banner, will present a nativity scene float, reminding everyone of the season’s traditional roots.
There will also be plenty of music and dance to get the crowd in the Christmas spirit, with performances by Rock Choir and the Aberdeen Academy of Performing Arts. Leading the musical procession will be the resounding notes of Dunnottar Pipes and Drums, whose festive tunes are sure to spread holiday cheer.
Community involvement is at the heart of the parade, with local charities like Inspire, NERV, and Guide Dogs for the Blind participating. Sports groups and community organisations will also add to the lively mix, showcasing the spirit and talent of Aberdeen’s residents.
One of the event’s most anticipated highlights is the Charlie House Santa Fun Run, which will see hundreds of “Santas” dashing through the streets. A popular fixture on the Charlie House calendar, the run invites people of all ages to run, walk, or roll in Santa suits to help raise money for children and families in need. Katie Bremner, Fundraising and Event Coordinator at Charlie House, couldn’t contain her excitement: “Hundreds of Santas are already signed up to run, walk, or roll through the Granite City, each helping us create lasting memories for local children and families.”
While spaces are filling up fast, there are still limited spots available, and Bremner encourages anyone interested to sign up at www.charliehouse.org.uk/events/santa-run-2024.
This year, Union Terrace Gardens will be aglow with festive lights and will feature a new “candy cane lane” that’s sure to be a hit with families and holiday-lovers alike. In addition to these charming installations, the city has added a brand-new Christmas Light-up Trail, which will showcase 12 festive decorations scattered throughout the city centre. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Aberdeen in a new light – quite literally – and get into the Christmas spirit.
As with any major event, a few parking restrictions and road closures will be in place to ensure the safety of all attendees. These restrictions will begin on Saturday evening and extend until Sunday night, covering several streets around the parade route. Albyn Place, Union Street, Union Terrace, and other roads along the route will see parking restrictions and closures starting as early as 4:00 pm on Sunday. Parade-goers are encouraged to plan ahead, look for alternative parking, and follow the diversions as directed to avoid delays.
For those planning a day out in Aberdeen, the Christmas Parade is only one of the city’s many festive events. More information on all holiday activities can be found at www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/christmas.
