LEAMINGTON’S Lantern Parade is set to light up the town once again after a year away.
Originally inspired by ‘The Lights of Leamington’ event, which lit up Jephson Gardens from 1951 to 1961, the parade organised by BID Leamington with the support of local businesses, sees hundreds of residents and visitors parade their homemade paper lanterns in town and illuminate the Pump Room Gardens.
After Covid forced last year’s event to be cancelled, it is hoped plenty of people will create fun lanterns to display on Sunday December 5.
Organisers are encouraging participants to attend workshops to make their own lanterns. For those who want a bit of help there are two lantern frame-making workshops which will be held in Foundry Wood, off Princes Drive in Leamington, where visitors can craft their creations in a natural outdoor setting.
The free Sunday workshops will be held on November 14 and 21, and ahead of the parade itself on December 5.
Stephanie Kerr, executive director of BID Leamington, said: “We love holding the Lantern Parade in the run-up to Christmas – it’s a brilliant event which attracts lots of visitors to the town and creates a wonderful spectacle.
“It’s always amazing to see how creative our town’s residents are with their designs, and we know we will see something special again this year.
“We decided to hold workshops in Foundry Wood this year, as it’s a really nice outdoor environment to craft in.
“So if anyone needs any help making their lantern, please visit Foundry Wood and give it a go. We are excited to see the return of the Lantern Parade and can’t wait to see people’s creations!”
Both workshops run from 10am to 4pm and no bookings are required. Participants should allow one to two hours to make a frame, which can then be finished off at home. Warm clothing is advised.
For information on the location and where to park visit www.foundrywood.co.uk/about-us/location/ Lantern-making packs can also be purchased from the CJ Event’s Information Tent near Boots at Sunday markets, or from the BID Leamington offices on Park Street from Monday to Friday.
Visit www.leamingtonlanternparade.co.uk for more information, including on how to build a lantern.
