This Thursday (11th December) the Romans are back to reclaim Chester – for one night only – as Chester’s Deva Victrix 20th Legion mark Saturnalia.
The action begins at 6pm with the parade leaving the city’s Grosvenor Museum to head to Eastgate Street where the emperor will address his subjects.
“The final festive parade in Chester joins together the fiery spectacle of the Roman legion celebrating Saturnalia and a second chance to see the Winter Watch parade,” said Cllr Lisa Denson, cabinet member at Cheshire West and Chester Council.
“The city will be under Roman occupation with the Roman legion marching with flaming torches.”
The Winter Watch parade will join forces with the Roman Saturnalia parade, at the Christmas Market in Town Hall Square at 7pm.
The two parades will then march through the city centre.
“Deva Victrix 20th Legion has been providing Roman spectacles for the benefit of the city, for nearly 28 years,” said Paul Harston, of Chester Roman Tours.
“As our emperor says, the Romans are still here, please join us as we march through our fortress bringing the gift of light and releasing the Saturnalicius princeps (Lord of Misrule).”
“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.”
– The Emperor Domitian
Saturnalia was the feast at which the Romans commemorated the dedication of the temple of the god Saturn.
It was originally celebrated in Ancient Rome for one day on 17th December, but it was so popular it extended to a week, from 17th to 23rd December – despite Augustus’ efforts to reduce it to three days, and Caligula’s attempts to reduce it to five.
Saturnalia became one of the most popular Roman festivals, marked by tomfoolery and a reversal of roles, with slaves and masters switching places.
Clothing was relaxed and included the peaked woollen cap that symbolised a freed slave.
A member of the familia (family plus slaves) would be appointed Saturnalicius princeps – roughly meaning the Lord of Misrule.
After the release of Chester’s Lord of Misrule at the Christmas Market, the Winter Watch Parade will share the stage for a final parade through the city.
The city’s Park and Ride scheme will be running late night services over Christmas, and the last bus from Foregate Street will be at 9pm on Thursday.
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