The IRN-BRU Carnival has returned to Glasgow.

The carnival opened its doors on Friday and is “back with a bang” after two years of disruption due to lockdown restrictions.

Attending the carnival has been a stalwart festive tradition for over 150 years and thousands have already booked to visit the event which runs until January 15.

Amazing photos reveal the excitement of the first guests through the doors of the SECC where the carnival is held.

Glasgow Times:

Organisers distributed over 1000 tickets to community groups and charities across Glasgow and the Central Belt, inviting them to enjoy the opening day.

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

As part of the magical opening experience, two 'unicorns' named Princess and Tinkerbell from The Unicorn Experience, greeted giddy youngsters before they entered the carnival.

Sophie McAllister, 6, was one of the first guests through the door and got the chance to meet the pair.

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

The IRN-BRU Carnival has over 65 rides and attractions this year including the much-loved Sticky Wall, the Waltzers, and the Dodgems.

Younger kids will also love the Mini Pirate Boat and the Frozen Family Coaster.

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

Glasgow Times:

The first Autism Friendly Session kicked off the grand opening.

From 12pm until 3pm, the main hall lights were kept on and the music was turned off or kept very low to give visitors with autism and other sensory processing disorders a chance to enjoy the event.

The second Autism Friendly Session will take place on Tuesday, January 10 from 4pm to 9pm.

Greg Cherry, managing director of QD Events, said: “After two years of disruption due to Covid we are absolutely delighted to be back with a bang.

“Our ride operators are all geared up to put on a great show for visitors with some of the most thrilling and exciting rides out there.

“Even from the first few hours we can tell this year is going to have a brilliant atmosphere with most people returning for the first time in three years.

“Demand for tickets has been high as people look to make Christmas 2022 one to remember and that’s why we’re encouraging people to book in advance so they aren’t disappointed.”

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