The theme for this year’s parade is ‘Snowy Stirling’ and will include local pipe bands, panto characters, street performers, community organisations and festive favourites, including Santa and Mrs Claus.
Free entertainment will get underway at 1.30pm with street performers on Murray Place and Port Street, while Strathcarron singers will perform carols at the roundel on King Street between 3 and 3.20pm.
The colourful Christmas parade will start on Baker Street at 4.30pm and will then make its way down the short distance down King Street – which will offer best vantage point for families – where it will finish for the big Santa switch on at 5pm.
Stirling Rock Choir will get the party into full swing with Christmas classics at the roundel at 4.40pm, before Makar Laura Fyfe will deliver a festive poem ahead of Santa switching on the city’s lights at 5pm.
On the same day, The Thistles Christmas grotto will open, while Stirling Baptist Church will host indoor family activities.
Special occasion
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Chris Kane said: “It’s always a special occasion to see families and friends gather together in the city centre to celebrate Stirling getting its festive sparkle.
“A diverse mix of free entertainment and music will be on show throughout the day, including the family-friendly parade, so everyone can get into the Christmas spirit ahead of the big switch on.
The switch on celebrations are among a packed festive programme of events taking place across Stirling, including the Albert Halls and Tolbooth.
These include Christmas markets, festive film showings, festive ceilidhs, wreath making, pantos, concerts, carols, Christmas afternoon tea, family shows and craft fairs.
From 2 December, Santa will also be at the National Wallace Monument each weekend until Sunday 17December for a magical storytelling experience. Tickets are now on sale at £5 per person and include entry to the Monument.
Something for everyone to enjoy
Cllr Kane added: “There are a diverse mix of festive events taking place across Stirling – some familiar favourites and some new additions – promising something for everyone to enjoy at this special time of year.
“Please check out the bumper programme of events taking place in the Stirling area. By coming along, not only will you have a fantastic time, you will be supporting your local venues, attractions and businesses.”
Timings for the Christmas lights switch on are subject to change. Please monitor the Council’s social media channels for updates including weather warnings.
A rolling road closure will be in place along Baker Street from 3pm with signage in place.
The parade is free to attend, however, attendees are required to register via Eventbrite ahead of time. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information, including Park & Ride timetables, please visit YourStirling.com