Santa and his reindeer to be joined by panto cast for start of festive season in Inverness

SANTA and his herd of reindeer will take time out of their busy schedule on Sunday to mark the beginning of the festive season in Inverness.

The festive fun will begin in Falcon Square at noon with their arrival.

They will be joined by the cast of Beauty and the Beast, this year's pantomime at Eden Court Theatre, and the stilt-walking Christmas elves who will keep the crowd entertained.

Falcon Square will also be home to the Cairngorm Group Window Wonderland featuring various children's attractions such as a bungee trampoline and carousel swings plus alpine huts selling high-quality personalised gifts, cheese and confectionery.

Following his arrival, Santa will take up residence in his magical Beauty and the Beast themed grotto from 1pm to 5pm.

Youngsters wanting to discuss their lists with Santa will be able to visit him every Thursday to Sunday up until Sunday December 22.

Provided by Eastgate Shopping Centre and run by the Highland Hospice, the grotto will open from 11am until 6pm on Thursdays and 11am until 5pm Friday to

Sunday.

The festive cheer will continue in the run-up to Christmas with many mall walkabout performers such as the Christmas Quackers, Christmas Time Travellers and Jolly Holly.

A full diary of Christmas events can be found at eastgateshoppping.co.uk or connecting with the centre on social media.

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