Christmas is returning to Carmarthen with a bang this year after a number of events were cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In the run-up to Christmas last year it was announced that the annual switching on of the festive lights in the town centre would be done without crowds in attendance for the first time in living memory. Instead people were invited to watch the ceremony online, enjoy a virtual Santa’s Grotto and view an online advent calendar organised by local businesses.
Now, 12 months later, Carmarthen is set to host a more traditional build-up to Christmas.
Read more: 24 things you only remember if you grew up in Carmarthen in the 1990s
On Saturday, November 20, the festivities will well and truly get under way with a number of activities for families to enjoy throughout the day.
Carmarthen Town Council has confirmed that a reindeer parade, last seen in the town in 2019, will make its way from Carmarthen Park at 12 noon and travel down Lammas Street, Mansel Street, St Catherine Street, Market Way, Lammas Street, Dark Gate, Guildhall Square, Hall Street, Nott Square, and finally up through King Street.
Led by Santa Claus himself, the reindeers will walk through the town to a beat supplied by west Wales drum band Samba Doc. Before getting on his merry way, Santa will also make an appearance at the Christmas Fayre held at St Peter’s Church.
Furthermore, between 1pm and 4pm, ‘Elf Stations’ will be positioned across the town offering free festive activities for children, while other free activities will be on offer throughout the afternoon in Guildhall Square, Nott Square, Yr Atom, St Catherine’s Walk, Jackson’s Lane and Merlin’s Walk.
The main event of the day for many people will seen the town’s Christmas lights being switched on at 4.30pm. The town council has said that the town’s streets will be “illuminated with gorgeous lights and decorations”, before Christmas in Carmarthen will well and truly get under way with a fireworks display at the local castle at 5pm.
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Mayor of Carmarthen Gareth John is excited and honoured to be switching on the Christmas lights in the town this year, having taken part in a quiet and subdued ceremony in 2020.
“Although very mindful of the ongoing Covid situation and the need for everyone to act responsibly and safely, I am very pleased to announce that a whole series of events and activities are planned to take place within town in the lead up to Christmas this year,” said Mr John.
“The town council in conjunction with its partners kick off the festive season with a bang on Saturday, November 20 with something for the whole family.
“It will be a truly spectacular way to announce the start of Christmas in Carmarthen.”
The Guy Fawkes Night fireworks display is also making a return to Carmarthen this year. The event takes place on Friday, November 5 at Carmarthen Park, with gates opening at 4.30pm before a children’s fireworks display gets under way at at 7.30pm, followed by the main fireworks display at 8pm. The event is organised by Carmarthen Round Table, with all proceeds from the night going towards supporting local good causes. Read more about the big firework displays across Wales here.
As for Carmarthen’s Winter Wonderland, which was such a huge success in 2018 and 2019, it is understood that the event is unlikely to go ahead in 2021, although organisers have yet to confirm either way.
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