‘Best one yet’: Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant to return in November

The Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant is returning to the city in November for its 40th anniversary, after Covid forced its postponement two years in a row. DETAILS >>

SANTA is coming back to town.

The Myer Hobart Christmas Pageant is returning to the city on November 19 for its 40th anniversary, after Covid forced its postponement two years in a row.

Santa and his fellow festive participants will return to Hobart’s streets, with the pageant regularly attracting 25,000 spectators.

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said Christmas “just hasn’t felt the same” without the pageant.

“The return of the Christmas Pageant shows our city is moving on from what has been a challenging past three years,” Ms Reynolds said.

“We’re so happy that we are able to bring Santa Claus and the pageant back to central Hobart.

Santa with Hobart City Council elf Jasmin Potter (top right) and Eleanor Johns, 12, Alice Yang, 9, and Luca Andrews, 12, from Musical Theatre Crew. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

“It’s always so lovely to see the enthusiastic participants and the warm welcome they get from the crowd.”

The pageant is considered the official start of Hobart’s annual Christmas shopping period.

Myer store manager Kathleen Kelly said the event is an “institution”.

“(It is) something that has been enjoyed by generations and with this year being the 40th anniversary, it makes the pageant even more special this year,” Ms Kelly said.

“As the major sponsor of the event, we can’t wait to be part of the fun and excitement that it brings to the city and I am sure that after a two-year hiatus it will be the best one yet.”

The pageant last went ahead in 2019. Picture: Matt Thompson

Up to 65 community groups ranging from dancers, sporting clubs and multicultural organisations will participate in the pageant alongside Santa, who will roll through Hobart on his big red sleigh.

There will be prizes for the best floats, including best Christmas-themed entry and best community entry.

Expressions of interest are now open to participate in the pageant.

Applications close on September 6.

For more information, visit hobartcity.com.au/Community/Christmas.