To officially mark the start of the festive season, Parkes CBD will be transformed into a colourful canvas of light displays on Friday, November 30, as part of the Sparkles Illumination. 

Parkes Shire Council's Destination Development Manager Kelly Hendry said, "the much loved outdoor light exhibition is designed to enhance the Shop Parkes Christmas retail campaign and draw visitors from far and wide to the Parkes CBD."

Locals and visitors are being encouraged to make the most of the late night trading opportunities to go and see the sparkling lights and undertake Christmas shopping in Parkes, or to make a night of the festivities and enjoy dining out.

"In order to make the event new and exciting, this year we have made some changes to the existing lights and added in some new locations."

"Local businesses have also joined in by decorating and illuminating their businesses to spread the festive cheer."

The illuminations and projections will sparkle every night throughout December, before being 'All Shook Up' in the New Year ahead of the Parkes Elvis Festival commencing on Wednesday. January 9.

"During the Elvis Festival the illumination will enhance the bustling atmosphere of Parkes and encourage visitor circulation of the CBD."

To coincide with the Sparkles lights switching on, locals are encouraged to watch the popular Christmas Street Parade this Friday evening at 6pm, before strolling into Cooke Park for 'Sparkle in the Park', where you'll find over 35 market stalls and can have your photo taken with Santa!

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