Young people from across Swansea will be at the heart of this year’s Christmas parade and lights switch-on.

Local drama and dance groups are among those who have said “Yes!” to a Swansea Council invitation to dress up and entertain thousands of spectators in the parade.

The council is now assessing the large number of positive responses – and will inform the chosen groups in the next few days.

Those selected will join a wide range of other participants, including local bands, organisations with eye-catching floats, professional entertainers – and Santa.

They will help deliver a strong Christmas theme and a focus on entertaining the crowds.

Swansea Council’s Special Events team – behind major successes such as the annual Wales Airshow – is organising the free event in mid-November to usher in a great festive season for shoppers, businesses, residents and visitors.

Robert Francis-Davies, the council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration and tourism, said: “We were delighted at the response from drama and dance groups across Swansea – those selected will add their own magic to the parade.

“Other organisations got in touch as well so we’ll have a rich cross-section of our local communities in the parade.

“They showed a real eagerness to be involved and to help give fellow citizens a great evening of festive entertainment.

“We want the parade to be magical, and a great addition to the city’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

“Our team continues to plan the event and we’ll announcing other key elements in due course.”

Swansea’s 2019 Christmas Parade and Lights Switch-on is due to take place from 5-7pm on Sunday, November 17.

The parade route will be from the Dylan Thomas centre, up Wind Street, Castle Street and High Street, into Alexandra Road, down Orchard Street and along The Kingsway.

Dates of Swansea Council’s main Christmas attractions have also been confirmed. They are:

Christmas Parade and Lights Switch-on, city centre – 5-7pm, Sunday, November 17
Christmas Street Market, Oxford Street/City Centre – Friday, November 15, to Sunday, December 22.
Santa’s Grotto, Oxford Street – various date/times from Saturday, November 16 to Sunday, December 22.

Waterfront Winterland, being delivered by Sayers Events and 11th Hour in partnership with the council, is due to take place on Museum Park from Friday, November 15, to Sunday, January 5.