Father Christmas and his herd of merry reindeer will arrive in Inverness tomorrow kicking off the festive period in the Highland Capital.
Santa Claus is set to roll into Falcon Square on Sunday where children and families can meet Santa and his reindeers, along with the cast of this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime from Eden Court plus the Ice Queen and King, from noon.
Jackie Cuddy, Eastgate Centre manager said: “Santa’s arrival with his reindeers marks the start of the festive season at Eastgate Shopping Centre. It is a very exciting time and we have a fantastic day planned on Sunday 18th November which we hope the whole family can come down and enjoy.
“There are going to be lots of fun activities taking place at Eastgate this Christmas, including a toy testing workshop with Santa’s Elves on 24th November, carols and festive weekend performances including the magical drummers from Spark, Rocking Robins and Joy Riding Reindeers.”
The man in his famed red suit will take up residence in his magical Jack and the Beanstalk themed grotto, located by Next in the Eastgate at about 1pm.
Proceeds from the grotto are to go towards raising much-needed funds for Highland Hospice.
Amanda Burt, head of fundraising for Highland Hospice, said: “We are very excited about the grotto opening at Eastgate Centre this November and hope many children and families visit to experience the magic of Christmas. It is a brilliant way to raise money for Highland Hospice so please come along.”
Santa’s grotto will be open from 11am to 6pm on Thursdays, and from 11am to 5pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.