Chester’s Saturnalia parade brings Roman flair to festive season finale

Chester’s festive season is set to end on a high note as the Saturnalia parade takes over the city on Thursday, 12 December.

Roman soldiers from Chester’s Deva Victrix 20th Legion will reclaim their historic fortress in a torchlit parade celebrating the ancient Roman festival.

The parade will depart from the Grosvenor Museum and arrive at Eastgate Street at 6.30pm, where the Emperor Domitian will address his subjects with a dramatic proclamation.

Councillor Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future, said: “The city will be under Roman occupation for one night as it moves back in time to 47/48 AD with the Roman Legion soldiers marching through the city with flaming torches.

“Chester Roman Tours bring our festive parades to a fitting end with their shouts of ‘Lo Saturnalia.’ I’d like to thank Chester Roman Tours and the many performers and volunteers who have entertained us over the past weeks.”

The Winter Watch Parade will join forces with the Saturnalia celebration at the Christmas Market in Town Hall Square at 7pm. Together, the two parades will march through the city, offering a dramatic conclusion to weeks of festive events.

What is Saturnalia?

Saturnalia was one of the most popular festivals in Ancient Rome, commemorating the god Saturn. Originally celebrated on 17 December, it grew to span a week of revelry.

Marked by feasting, role reversals, and tomfoolery, the festival saw masters and slaves switching roles, relaxed dress codes, and the appointment of a “Lord of Misrule” to oversee the merriment.

In Chester’s rendition, the release of a modern-day “Lord of Misrule” will take place at the Christmas Market before joining the Winter Watch Parade for a final march through the city centre.

Emperor Domitian himself will make a bold declaration:

“Let none of you be mistaken, the Romans are still here. At certain times of the year, you will see us marching once more through our fortress. Remember who and what I am. I am Imperator. I am a living God. I am Caesar. I am Rome.”

Chester’s Saturnalia parade promises a theatrical and immersive finale to the city’s festive celebrations, blending ancient Roman tradition with seasonal cheer.