Dancing toys, dazzling decorations and twinkling lights will fill the streets as Liverpool ONE kicks off the countdown to Christmas with a spectacular Toy Parade.
Taking place on Saturday 15 November, the unmissable celebration will see more than 100 children take centre stage as they lead the parade through the retail and entertainment destination, marking the start of the festive season in style.
Joining the festivities will be a group of children and young adults from Claire House Children’s Hospice, who will proudly showcase handmade props and decorations they’ve created especially for the event. Their imaginative designs will bring extra sparkle and warmth to the parade, celebrating the creativity and spirit of the children supported by the hospice.
Claire House provides specialist care and support for seriously and terminally ill babies, children and young adults from across the region—offering end-of-life care, respite and comfort to families during their most difficult 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.
“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.”
The Toy Parade, created and produced by outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank, promises an explosion of colour and movement with toy soldiers, a robot, a larger-than-life Christmas tree and a sugar plum fairy all brought to life before the crowds.
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.”
But the magic doesn’t stop there. From Friday 7 November, visitors will be able to soak up the festive spirit as Liverpool ONE’s Christmas lights and decorations are switched on across the estate. From the 25-metre Christmas tree on Chavasse Park and the giant bauble on Paradise Street, to sparkling reindeer, returning favourites like Bar Hütte, and family rides up in the park, the city centre will be glowing with Christmas cheer.
Then, from Thursday 20 November, every Thursday evening through November and December will sparkle with special festive moments, from giant illuminated penguins and carol-oke to games of pass the parcel and other magical surprises designed to delight visitors of all ages.
And for families, the free Christmas Trail returns, offering an interactive festive adventure through Liverpool ONE’s decorations and shop windows. With riddles, characters and games to discover along the way, it’s the perfect way to make magical memories this Christmas.
Donna Howitt, Deputy Centre Director at Liverpool ONE, 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.”
For more information about Christmas at Liverpool ONE, visit the website.
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