Chester’s Saturnalia parade welcomes the Romans

For Chester’s final festive parade on Thursday 12 December, Chester’s Deva Victrix 20th Legion take back control of their city as Chester Roman Tours celebrate Saturnalia.

The parade leaves from the Grosvenor Museum arriving in Eastgate Street at 6.30pm when the Emperor will address his subjects.

Councillor Lisa Denson, Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future (Poverty, Public Health and Mental Health) 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’

“The Winter Watch parade will join forces with the Roman Saturnalia parade, at the Christmas Market in Town Hall Square at 7pm with the two parades marching through the city centre. I’d like to thank Chester Roman Tours for sharing their festive parade and to the many performers and volunteers who have entertained us over the past weeks.”

Saturnalia was the feast at which the Romans commemorated the dedication of the temple of the god Saturn. Saturnalia was originally celebrated in Ancient Rome for only a day on December 17, but it was so popular it extended to a week, from the 17 to 23 December, despite Augustus' efforts to reduce it to three days, and Caligula's, to five.

Saturnalia became one of the most popular Roman festivals. It was marked by tomfoolery and reversal of roles, with slaves and masters switching places. Clothing was relaxed and included the peaked woollen cap that symbolised the freed slave. A member of the familia (family plus slaves) was appointed Saturnalicius princeps, roughly, Lord of Misrule.

Following the release of Chester’s Lord of Misrule at the Christmas Market in Town Hall Square, the Winter Watch Parade shares the stage for a final march through the city.

The Emperor Domitian, in his proclamation says:

“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 a sword that sings in the dark. I am the sound of a legion marching to war. I am the axe that thuds into your scull. I am accuser, judge and executioner. I am Imperator. I am a living God. I am Caesar. I am Rome.”

Chester Park and Ride is running late night services over Christmas, the last bus from Foregate Street will be 9pm on Thursdays and then during Christmas week Monday 16, Tuesday 17, Wednesday 18, Thursday 19, Friday 20 December, Monday 23 December to 9pm. 

Pictured - Chester Saturnalia Parade (2023)