Llanelli Christmas Carnival: Festive cheer set for November 22

WITH just one week to go, Llanelli is gearing up for its annual Christmas Carnival, set to take place on Friday, November 22. The vibrant event, featuring decorated lorries, sleighs, and tractors, promises to light up the streets and mark the countdown to Christmas in style.

Families from Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, and beyond will gather in the town centre to enjoy the festivities, culminating in the highly anticipated Christmas lights switch-on. The fun starts at 4:00pm, with the opening of the fairground rides provided by the South Wales Showmen’s Guild.

Renowned as one of Wales’ largest community Christmas events, Llanelli’s Christmas Carnival is a collaborative effort by Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanelli Town Council, Llanelli Rural Council, and Llanelli Round Table.

The carnival parade, organised by Llanelli Round Table with support from Owens Group, M & M Greene, and Oliver Jordan Transport, boasts over 22 entries this year. The procession begins at 6:15pm, departing from Festival Fields, Pwll, and arriving in the town shortly after the lights switch-on at 6:45pm.

To ensure smooth proceedings, road closures will be in place from 5:45pm to 8:00pm on Church Street and Gelli Onn (westbound). Cowell Street will close earlier, at 12:00pm, to accommodate preparations.

A spectacular fireworks display at 7:45pm will round off the evening’s entertainment, while the funfair remains open until 9:00pm.

Winners of the Christmas lights design competition, organised by local councils and Ymlaen Llanelli, have been announced. Congratulations to Frankie Rees from Maes Y Morfa School (junior category) and Lucia Rees from Five Roads School (infant category) for their winning designs, which will proudly feature in the town’s festive displays.

Cllr Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture, and Tourism, said: “The Llanelli Christmas Carnival brings our community together and attracts visitors from afar. I’m excited to meet the talented lights competition winners and see their designs come to life.”

Adding to the comments, Cllr Martin Davies, Llanelli Rural Council Chairman, added: “This cherished tradition lights up our town with joy and a true sense of holiday spirit.”

Also excited about the coming event, Cllr David Darkin, Llanelli Town Council Leader, shared: “The carnival is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the best of Llanelli. I look forward to seeing everyone come together for this magical event.”