The Winter Watch parades in Chester this December will have a new addition.
Artistic director Russell Kirk introduces Gaia, the Greek goddess of the Earth, to the popular annual parade. She joins previous characters Envy, with snakes in her hair and a snake in her hand, Plenty, garlanded with wheat ears around her body, Fame with a trumpet, followed by Peace, Joy, Rumour and finally the winged Mercury.
‘Setting the Watch’ was a tradition from the 1400s, as the city leaders handed over the keys of Chester to the City Watch – the early police force – after walking around the city to ensure it was secure. There then followed a banquet and celebration of Christmas, knowing the city was safe.
Today’s version includes the city watch men who are joined by a cast of angels, devils, fire skeletons, dragons and cooks with their Victorian Christmas Dinner.
The fun parade, on Thursdays, December 4 and 11, start from Chester Town Hall Square at 7pm led by Karamba Samba as the ‘ghost band’ takes over the city streets with fire-breathers, sword fights and music.
It passes through the Christmas Market, past Chester Cathedral onto St Werburgh Street, turns right into Eastgate Street, Bridge Street, then returns to the Cross and back to the Town Hall Square via Northgate Street.
Executive member for culture and economy councillor Stuart Parker said: “There will be something for everyone in the parade which has been taking place for several years.
“The Winter Watch is part of Chester’s Christmas celebrations that includes the Christmas market in the Town Hall Square and Eastgate Street, Winter Wonderland at Chester Race Course and Lantern Magic at Chester Zoo.
“Being Chester, we leave it to the Roman’s to bring us right up to Christmas as they take back the city for the final festive parade on Thursday December 18 to celebrate with their torch lit Saturnalia parade.”
