The holiday season is upon us, and Adelaide came alive with festive cheer as the 2024 Christmas Pageant lit up the city streets. A beloved tradition for generations, this iconic event marks the start of the festive season for families across South Australia. This year, Frankie the Creative had not one but two photographers—Lewis and Dylan—on the ground to capture every moment of magic and celebration with Events South Australia and SATC.

Every year, the Christmas Pageant gets bigger and brighter, and 2024 was no exception. This year’s theme, "A Merry South Australian Christmas," brought a local twist to the festivities, featuring floats inspired by iconic landmarks, wildlife, and cultural heritage. From the moment the first float turned onto King William Street, it was clear this year’s event was going to be unforgettable.

Over 60 intricately designed floats delighted audiences of all ages. Highlights included Santa’s shimmering sleigh, a float paying homage to the Adelaide Hills’ cherry orchards, and a whimsical underwater display celebrating South Australia’s stunning coastline. Capturing the level of detail and craftsmanship in these floats was a dream for Lewis and Dylan, who worked together to ensure every angle and moment was preserved.

Of course, the magic wasn’t limited to the floats. Performers from local schools, community groups, and professional troupes brought the streets to life with vibrant costumes and high-energy routines. Watching their hard work and enthusiasm shine on the day reminded us all of the incredible creativity and talent within our community.

While the pageant is always a visual feast, it’s often the candid moments that resonate the most. Parents lifting their children onto their shoulders, little ones waving enthusiastically at their favourite characters, and the shared laughter of families spread across picnic blankets—all of these moments painted a picture of connection and joy. Lewis, with his talent for storytelling through photography, honed in on these tender, fleeting moments that brought the pageant to life. While Dylan had the wide angle for Santa as the big man came around the corner at Beehive Corner and into Rundle Mall.

The event also carried a sense of nostalgia, with floats inspired by past designs reminding everyone of the pageant’s deep roots in Adelaide’s history. For over 90 years, this beloved event has brought people together, creating a legacy of joy and community. Both Lewis and Dylan worked to capture this connection between past and present, ensuring their photos reflected the tradition and magic that makes the Christmas Pageant such a treasured part of South Australian culture.

Santa’s arrival was, as always, the most anticipated moment of the day. His glittering float, adorned with dazzling tinsel and holiday decor, rolled down the parade route to cheers from the crowd. Dylan caught the excitement in children’s faces as they spotted Santa waving from his sleigh, while Lewis focused on the magical glow of performers and punters that filled the street. These are the moments that define the holiday season—joyful, timeless, and unforgettable.

Beyond the parade itself, the pageant’s festive atmosphere spilled into the surrounding areas, with food stalls, live music, and Christmas markets adding to the experience. Families lingered long after the last float had passed, sharing food and stories as the city basked in the holiday spirit. Events like these remind us of the importance of family, tradition and community, especially in today’s fast-paced world.

Lewis and Dylan, both passionate about storytelling, loved working together to capture the full spectrum of the day—from the grandeur of the floats to the smallest heartfelt gestures. Their combined talents created a gallery of images that truly reflect the joy and magic of the event.

If you attended the pageant this year, we hope it brought as much joy to your family as it did to ours. Whether you were marveling at the floats, cheering for the performers, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, the Christmas Pageant is an experience that stays with you long after the last float has passed.

As the holiday season continues, Frankie the Creative is here to help you create and preserve your own holiday memories. Whether it’s a family portrait session or candid moments at your holiday gathering, Lewis and Dylan are ready to tell your story through their lenses.

Let’s celebrate the moments that matter. From all of us at Frankie the Creative, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a season filled with happiness and creativity.

Are you ready to capture your holiday memories? Book your festive season shoot with the Frankie The Creative today and make the season unforgettable.