Two brand new floats are set to roll through Adelaide’s streets at the 94th National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant on Saturday 14 November, and they’re bringing some serious festive flair.
The Magic Hat, created by artist David Clarke, is shaped like a pointy elf hat that doubles as a house. Bursting with colour and sparkle, it offers a playful peek into the magical place where elves live and festive tales begin. Think Christmas stories brought to life on wheels.
Bumper Christmas, designed by artist John Barone who has worked on the Pageant for more than 30 years, transforms Christmas morning into a festive winter fun park on wheels. And here’s a sweet detail for long-time Pageant fans: the much-loved baby penguins from the retired Penguins R Kool float will return on this new float, sliding and gliding through the city for a whole new generation to enjoy.
Emma Memma returns
Adding to the excitement, beloved children’s entertainer Emma Memma will be back at this year’s Pageant, riding aboard the Sounds & Signs of Christmas float. If you’ve got little ones who love her, this is your heads-up to stake out a good spot early.
This year’s theme is ‘Share the Magic’, and the Pageant remains the largest Christmas parade in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether your family lines the streets in person or watches the Channel 9 broadcast from home, it’s one of those South Australian traditions that just hits differently.
Behind the scenes at Stardust Castle
National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Director Brian Gilbertson says the team has been hard at work behind the scenes at Stardust Castle to make sure the new floats look spectacular for the thousands of people expected to attend.
“Seeing The Magic Hat and Bumper Christmas make their debut at the 94th National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant, alongside the return of crowd favourite Emma Memma, will make this year’s Pageant even more memorable,” Mr Gilbertson said.
National Pharmacies CEO Brigid Hughes says the Pageant is about more than just a parade. “This year’s National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant is all about remembering what a magical time Christmas can be because it brings us together as a community.”
For more information, visit christmaspageant.com.au.
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