The extension, called Highcross Leicester, will be opened on September 4 and a ‘Parade Illuminaire’ is being organised where children with lanterns will take part in a procession.

The early evening parade aims to be a spectacular procession of sound, colour and light, drawing hundreds of children from across Leicestershire.

The procession will start at Leicester’s Clock Tower and go through the city centre via High Street and St Peter’s Square to the new centre.

Youngsters will be joined by musicians and other performers.

St Peter’s Square will also be the venue for various performers later in the evening as part of the launch festivities.

In the lead-up to launch day, Highcross Leicester will also be running summer school lantern workshops where artists will help children make their lanterns for the big day.

Karl Boyce, marketing manager at the centre’s developer Hammerson, said: “What better way could there be to launch our new retail, dining and entertainment offering than by involving those who we hope will visit us for many years to come.”

The lantern-making workshops will take place between August 18 and 22 at Leicester Creative Business Depot in Rutland Street, Leicester.

Both the workshop and parade entry are free.

For more details or to book a place, phone Anna Peavitt on 0116 2616812 or email anna@comedy-festival.co.uk.