HUNDREDS of performers will take to the streets of Glasgow today for the return of the Style Mile carnival.

It is expected tens of thousands of people will watch as the extravaganza makes its way at 2.30pm from St Enoch Square to George Square.

This year the carnival will celebrate Christmas with a medieval theme with enormous sculptures which include a giant Christmas dinner, representations of some well known city figures and Christmas characters.

Lord Provost Sadie Docherty will lead the procession on a dray pulled by Clydesdale horses joined by four-year-old Cole Thomson and his family.

The youngster is a patient at the Royal Hospital for Children and his family is raising funds for the Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity.

Among some of the 20 plus organisations taking part in the parade are Distinctive Dance Academy, Steam Punks Society, Samba Ya Bamba Youth Group and Mount Florida primary school.

Mrs Docherty said: "The Style Mile carnival is an event which spreads the joy of Christmas throughout Glasgow City Centre. 

"Tens of thousands of people will enjoy a true spectacle on the city streets while visiting Glasgow's outstanding retail offer.

"I am looking forward to joining Cole and his family for an absolutely amazing day out which is another fine example of all that Glasgow has to offer in the lead up to Christmas."

The Christmas Market in St Enoch Square opened last month and a new market on George Square opens on George Square today.

It will feature festive food, hot wine, gifts, live entertainment and fairground rides.

Baby's First Christmas will be celebrated on Saturday December 3 and the Lord Provost and a children's choir will attend the traditional Blessing of the Crib in George Square on Wednesday December 7.

Glasgow's Santa Dash, which last year saw more than 6000 runners taking part, will be held on Sunday December 11. To enter go to www.glasgowloves christmas.com/whats-on/Pages/Santa-Dash.

For more information on the Style Mile carnival and its route visit Glasgow Loves Christmas