Free bus travel returns for Swansea’s Christmas Parade weekend after strike suspension
The council says its popular free bus initiative — which it claims has already clocked up more than a million journeys in recent years — will run on Saturday 22 November and Sunday 23 November, helping tens of thousands of people get to the parade more easily.
Strike suspension clears way for festive travel
The Unite union confirmed on Tuesday that strike action at First Cymru had been put on hold following an improved pay offer to drivers. Swansea Council has said this decision means services will run as normal this weekend, allowing the authority to reinstate its free bus scheme in time for the parade.
Council Leader Rob Stewart described the development as “great news”:
“This year’s parade promises to be the best ever and I want to thank everyone involved for getting the show on the road. It is great news that buses will be running this Sunday after all, following news that the First Cymru bus services industrial action has been put on hold. It means that we can offer free bus rides at the weekend. It’s a brilliant early festive present for local families on what will be a great curtain‑raiser to the Christmas season in the city centre.”
How the free travel works
According to the council, the offer applies only to journeys that start and finish within Swansea. Free travel will be available until 7pm on Saturday and until 9pm on Sunday, giving families extra time to get home after the parade.
Parade details and parking
The council has confirmed the parade begins at 5pm on Sunday, starting from the Guildhall for the first time in several years. Santa will light up the building in red and green before setting off, with fireworks marking the start of the procession.
Officials say two extra car parks — at the Civic Centre and the Recreation Ground — will be open on Sunday to accommodate visitors, each charging £5 per vehicle. Drivers coming from the west are advised by the council to use these sites, while those arriving from the east can use the usual city centre car parks.
The Fabian Way Park and Ride will not operate this year, but East Burrows car park and the wider city centre network remain available.
The parade will culminate with another fireworks display and the Christmas lights switch‑on at the tree near the Dragon Hotel.
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