Santa Cruise and Masked Parade

Santa Sparkles in Windermere!

The residents in Windermere and Bowness celebrated the start of the festive season on 26th November 2011.

After waking to dry, blustery weather conditions the day started with the sold out Seeking Santa Cruise, aboard a Windermere Lake Cruises Steamer, which saw children entertained by Peter Rabbit and ‘Beatrix Potter’ reading ‘A Winters Tale’ while sailing the lake seeking Santa! Once found he boarded the steamer to receive the children’s requests for gifts.

On their return to Bowness Santa and Beatrix Potter rode off in style round Bowness and Windermere courtesy of the stunning Booths horse and carriage.

The Windermere Masked Parade was the biggest attraction of the day, drawing over 1,500 people who turned out following the earlier heavy rain to see the town light up as the lights were switched on. The Kookaburra All Stars and Lakeland Radio kept the parade moving to a rhythmic beat while Santa, lead by his Reindeer, sprinkled his magic dust to turn on the lights along the way.

As the crowds arrived at Windermere Recreation Ground, they were greeted by the carnival sound of Milnthorpe Steel Band, accompanied by the traditional mulled wine and mince pies, were a warming prelude to the dramatic fireworks finale.