A free family event celebrating all things Christmas, returns to Coventry on Saturday 22 November.

A snow lion, swan pedalo, seven-foot singing robins and other magical characters will entertain all ages during the ‘Christmas Dreams’ themed Council-run event, which will be held from 3pm to 8pm across the city centre.

Father Christmas will be making special appearances during regular shows by local theatre company Ego, in addition to multi-sensory storytelling by Talking Birds. The popular Snow Globe Fairy also makes a return this year, alongside Fire and Ice sculpture demonstrations and Spark – the much-loved illuminated drummers.

Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events, Coventry City Council said: “Last year’s Festival of Christmas event received a huge amount of positive feedback from those who attended, so we’ve decided to host the event again this winter.

“The Christmas Dreams theme will bring a trail of magical festivities to our city centre as we work with some of our local organisations to create breathtaking performances, comedy shows and traditional Christmas characters for all ages, in different locations throughout the city centre.

“I encourage everyone to attend this free Council event as it’s the perfect way to start the winter season. “

The event will be held in locations across the city including University Square, Cathedral Ruins, Upper Precinct, Broadgate, Smithford Way, Market Way and Hertford Street. The Christmas market and big wheel will also be open in Broadgate too, with a variety of seasonal food, drinks and gifts on offer.

There will be free parking for entry after 3pm on the 22 November in Council run, city centre car parks and on Saturday 20, Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December.

For more information about the event and a schedule of performances, visit coventry.gov.uk/FestivalofChristmas