Father Christmas and his team of real reindeers, direct from the North Pole – will be parading through Oldham Town Centre this Saturday
The much-loved free Reindeer Parade will this year feature the 12 days of Christmas; festive characters, the cast of the Coliseum Theatre’s pantomime, Aladdin, and the Reindeer Rocks Youth band.
The festive fun starts at 11am when giant elves, crazy crackers and a roaming Robin will all be spreading Christmas cheer on High Street.
The parade sets off from Clegg Street at 12.45pm. The reindeer then race up High Street, Lord Street, Albion Street and Henshaw Street before resting outside Oldham Town Square Shopping Centre around 30 minutes later.
Oldham town centre mascots Ollie and Millie will also be making an appearance.
Young and old should also look out for the reindeer having a rest in front of the Market Hall after the parade before they make their return trip to the North Pole.
Children should remember to bring their letters for Santa to give to his elves who will be next to the reindeer pen outside the Market Hall.
There will be brass bands and the best seasonal street theatre on the High Street through until 3pm. Christmas characters will also be handing out free hats, balloons and sweets.
After the parade, Santa will also open his fairy tale grotto in the Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre.
There is free children’s reindeer puppetry, face-painting and balloon modelling in the Market Hall too from 11am to 3pm.
Councillor Jean Stretton, Oldham Council’s Cabinet Member for Town Centres, Culture and Tourism, said: “For many families our Reindeer Parade signals the start of the festivities here in the town centre. Parade day is an ideal time to start your Christmas shopping early.”
“The event has become an annual favourite and there isn’t a better chance to see Santa and real reindeers up close.”
Shoppers can enjoy free parking for three hours at all Oldham Council car parks at weekend, free all day at Hobson Street car park and 3 hours for £1 in Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre car parks. But don’t forget – you must take a ticket from the machine and display it in your vehicle.
This year you could also win a trip to meet Santa in Lapland.
The Oldham Town Centre Partnership has teamed up with Thomas Cook and Revolution 96.2 to give one lucky family the chance to meet Santa in Lapland.
As well as return flights for a family of four, the prize includes thrilling reindeer and husky sleigh rides, a gift for the kids and time to explore Santa’s enchanting village.
To have a chance of winning this amazing prize, please go to www.visitoldham.com/christmas
The competition closes at midnight on November 30, 2014.
Note that you must have a valid passport to claim the prize and the trip must be taken on the Sunday, December 14
