Gloucester’s cherished Lantern Parade is back this year, casting a vibrant, nature-inspired glow over the city’s streets. With a theme celebrating the harmony of communities in nature, this year’s event breathes life into magical shoals of fish, bustling colonies of ants, and busy bees crafted by the city’s youngest artists.
Organised by Gloucester City Council and Gloucester BID, the parade is a highlight of the Bright Nights festival, which runs through March next year and aims to brighten the dark winter evenings with light and entertainment.
Taking place on Saturday, November 15, the parade features lanterns handmade by five local schools: Beech Green Primary, Calton Road Primary, Hillview Primary, Kingsholm C of E Primary and Nursery, and Upton St Leonards Primary. For the first time, community groups including the Folk of Gloucester, Bridge Training, and Gloucester Children’s Centre will also participate, extending the community spirit of the event.
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The creative process saw participants working alongside local artists to explore how animals and nature collaborate to support each other, continuing the theme of ‘Community as a Superpower’ from Refugee Week.
The day’s festivities begin at 3:45pm in Kings Square with music and entertainment hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire’s Jon Smith. At 4pm, a community carol service will be held at Gloucester Cathedral, followed by live music outside as the parade prepares to start. The procession sets off at 4:50pm, led by Father Christmas and the Gloster Gladiators Scout Band, as Christmas lights illuminate the city in their wake.
Further seasonal music will be performed by The Salvation Army Band, Gloucester Dementia Choir, and the Gloucestershire Youth Wind Orchestra during a Rotary Club fundraiser and the Tree of Light switch-on at 5:35pm, with celebrations continuing until 6pm.
Visitors can also enjoy a free drop-in workshop led by artist Russell Haines, funded by Together Gloucester, where they can create a ‘Dove of Peace’ to be displayed as a public artwork in the city centre in the New Year.
Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, shared, “The annual lantern parade draws thousands to Gloucester and fills the city with magical memories. It’s a wonderful time for us all to come together and celebrate the unique community spirit that defines Gloucester.”
Emily Gibbon, manager at Gloucester BID, added, “We’re delighted to once again be part of this enchanting event alongside Gloucester City Council. The Lantern Parade and Christmas Light Switch-On are truly highlights of our year, filling Gloucester’s historic streets with festive cheer. It’s fantastic to see so many people supporting local businesses while enjoying the incredible atmosphere that makes Gloucester special at Christmas.”