Children and young adults from Claire House Children’s Hospice brought festive joy to the streets of Liverpool today as they took centre stage in Liverpool ONE’s inaugural Toy Parade, officially launching Christmas celebrations in spectacular style.

The group from Liverpool ONE’s Charity of the Year proudly showcased handmade props and decorations they had created especially for the occasion, delighting the crowd that lined the streets.

Joining them were more than 100 children from Wallasey School of Ballet, MD Productions, and Topaz Dancentre who performed alongside dancing toys, glittering decorations and shimmering lights, creating magical moments throughout the destination.

The 40-minute parade, which took place at 1pm, 3pm and 5pm, was created and produced by outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank and featured Santa, a larger-than-life Christmas tree, toy soldiers, a robot, a sugar plum fairy and a band bringing colour, movement and festive magic to life.

Among those taking part from Claire House was eight-year-old Eliza Aylward from Ellesmere Port.

Eliza has multiple complex medical needs, including epilepsy, autism, global developmental delay, one lung and underdevelopment of her brain.

Eliza’s mum, Melissa, said, “Eliza is a ball of energy and absolutely loves Christmas, so to be involved today – and of course, meet Santa – was an incredible experience for her.

“We are just one of many families for whom Claire House is very special – it is an amazing place that Eliza truly loves going to and we know that the care she receives is the very best. Making memories like the parade today and being able to enjoy it as a family has been fantastic…the perfect way to start the countdown to Christmas!”

Alice Carter, producer at Walk the Plank, said, “The energy from the performers and the crowds today has been phenomenal. Watching the young people from Claire House and the local dance schools bring such creativity, joy and festive spirit to Liverpool ONE has been an absolute privilege. This parade has been a wonderful celebration of community, imagination and the magic of Christmas.”

The Toy Parade marks the official start of Liverpool ONE’s packed Christmas programme, which runs until 31 December. The festivities promise something for everyone, with a wide range of family-friendly events and experiences across the destination.

Highlights include the return of Festive Thursdays featuring giant penguins and polar bears, the popular Christmas Trail, Christmas on the Park with family rides, food and Bar Hütte beneath the 25-metre Christmas tree.

Adding to the festivities, the iconic Liverpool Sign on Thomas Steers Way has been transformed with a stunning Christmas design by artist Em Coy. Her vibrant artwork captures the magic of a Liverpool Christmas, from dancing and twinkling lights to festive markets and hot chocolate.

Donna Howitt, Deputy Centre Director at Liverpool ONE, said, “What a spectacular way to kick off Christmas at Liverpool ONE! The Toy Parade has exceeded all our expectations and the atmosphere across the destination today has been magical.

“We’re so proud to have worked with our Charity of the Year, Claire House, our participating dance schools and Walk the Plank to make this such a special occasion. This is just the beginning – we’ve got an incredible programme of festive events lined up to what’s expected to be a record year for our brands at Liverpool ONE.”

Why not follow Birkenhead News on Facebook, Bluesky, WhatsApp, Twitter, and Threads. You can also send story ideas or letters to the editor to news@birkenhead.news