Three kings riding on camels will be playing a starring role in the Christmas parade as part of the Christmas lights switch-on event on November 19.
The camels will be joined by Eagley Brass Band, two giant Angels, a lantern parade, some festive cyclists and costumed characters dressed as Christmas baubles, puddings and elves.
The parade will also be joined by the town’s giant snowmen, who will be making their 22nd appearance in the parade, as well as Santa, the Mayor and Mayoress in their sleigh.
The larger than life parade will leave Churchgate at 6pm and follow a longer than usual route down Deansgate, then turn down Market Street and through the Market Place Shopping Centre, then back round to Victoria Square for 6.45pm.
Meanwhile, the Christmas lights switch on show will start in Victoria Square at 5pm on Thursday November 19, with a galaxy of local singers and bands, followed by local actress Sammy Winward counting down to the big switch-on at 7pm.
The Leader of Bolton Council, Councillor Cliff Morris, said: "We're really pleased to be putting on a larger than ever parade this year and hope that the camels and other new additions such as the lanterns will prove to be a popular addition to the parade.
We hope that everyone will come on down to Churchgate and follow the sparkling parade as it makes its way to Victoria Square, where we’ll have a Christmas lights countdown followed by some fabulous fireworks.”
Nikki Wilson Cook, Centre Manager for the Market Place said: "We are delighted to be the official sponsor of Bolton’s light switch-on and Winter Festival this year, it’s great to be part of these fantastic family events and we’re very excited that the parade will be passing through Market Place for the very first time!
The light switch-on and parade marks the start of Christmas here at Market Place and we will also be open for late night shopping until 8pm that night, so after the switch-on, why not come down with your family to make a start on your Christmas shopping.”
For all the build-up and action at Bolton's Christmas light switch-on, follow the council on Twitter @Boltoncouncil and get involved using #BoltonXmasLights
