Hats off, bumpers up! New floats revealed for 2026 Pageant lineup

Two new major floats – The Magic Hat and Bumper Christmas – will make a dazzling debut at the 94th National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant on Saturday 14 November.

The new additions will take to the streets of Adelaide as part of the largest Christmas parade in the Southern Hemisphere, which officially begins the festive season in South Australia.
 
The Magic Hat, created by artist David Clarke, brings Christmas stories to life and features a pointy elf hat shaped like a house. Bursting with colour and sparkle, the float offers a playful glimpse into the magical place where elves live and festive tales begin.
 
Bumper Christmas, designed by artist John Barone, who has proudly worked on the Christmas Pageant for more than 30 years, transforms Christmas morning into a festive winter fun park on wheels. The much-loved baby penguins from retired float Penguins R Kool will return on the new float, sliding and gliding through the city for a new generation to enjoy.
 
Adding to the colour and excitement of Pageant Day, beloved children’s entertainer Emma Memma will return aboard the Sounds & Signs of Christmas float, signing and singing festive messages to the crowd.
 
This year’s Pageant theme, ‘Share the Magic’ invites everyone to celebrate community, kindness and generosity, and to carry that spirit throughout the Christmas season and beyond.
 
Last year’s pageant welcomed an audience of approximately 335,000 people, marking the event's largest crowd in a decade.
 
The free and accessible event is set to again draw visitors into the heart of Adelaide, supporting hotels, hospitality venues and local businesses.
 
For more information, visit www.christmaspageant.com.au.
 
Minister for Tourism, Emily Bourke said the new floats highlight a magical time of year for South Australian families.
 
"The National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant is a must-see South Australian tradition, drawing visitors into Adelaide to experience the colour, creativity and festive spirit of our state," Minister Bourke said. 
 
"These new floats will bring even more magic to city streets, giving families another reason to visit Adelaide and experience one of our most treasured traditions."
 
National Pharmacies CEO, Brigid Hughes said this year’s National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant is all about remembering what a magical time Christmas can be because it brings us together as a community.
 
"Our team and members at National Pharmacies are proud to support such an important community tradition that brings joy and connection to so many South Australians beyond Pageant Day," Ms Hughes said. 

National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant Director,  Brian Gilbertson said seeing The Magic Hat and Bumper Christmas make their debut at the 94th National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant, alongside the return of crowd favourite Emma Memma, will make this year’s Pageant even more memorable.
 
"Behind the scenes, our elves have been hard at work at Stardust Castle to ensure the new floats look spectacular for the thousands of people attending the parade next month," Mr Gilbertson said. 
 
"We can’t wait to see the new floats light up Adelaide’s streets and screens for those watching the Channel 9 broadcast from home,"