There are so many different winter attractions taking place in Chester every year. Chester is the go-to place in the region for a good time in winter with parades, fairgrounds, markets, festivals and much more.
One of the best traditional events in Chester during December in the Christmas Winter Watch Parade.
It is a totally free to attend event and is fun for the whole family. It is based on traditions that date back to the 1400’s. In Chester’s historic past the ‘setting of the watch’ involved the city leaders handing over the keys to the city to the City Watch, which would have been like an early police force. They would march around the city to ensure its security from invaders. Once the city was properly secured, people could enjoy banquets and Christmas festivities with peace of mind.
Nowadays the Winter Watch has a much more whimsical atmosphere with large colourful puppets, fancy dress, face paints, floats and banners. Characters such as angels, devils, ghosts, skeletons and even Christmas cooks are designed and paraded through the town. Many community groups and local artists take part, designing their very own colourful additions to the parade.
If you are coming to see the parade, keep an eye out for the thrilling fire breathers and the skeleton emperor! These are firm favourites of the parade that have become part of the Chester tradition.
The parade starts from the Town Hall Square and then heads down St Werburgh Street then through Eastgate Street, Bridge Street, the Cross and then finally Northgate Street.
This parade takes place from 7pm-8pm on Thursday 4th December and lasts roughly 40 minutes.
This is a great event to head to after a long day of Christmas shopping in Chester.
Image Credit: www.flickr.com/photos/donaldjudge/
