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Gloucester’s Enchanted Lantern Parade to Light Up the Streets

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This year’s Lantern Parade promises to transform the streets of Gloucester into a magical, wintry wonderland, as children from across the city showcase their handmade creations.

Organised by Gloucester City Council and Gloucester BID, the Lantern Parade, which this year has the theme of An Enchanted Winter Forest, will take place on Saturday, November 16.

The parade is a much-loved festive tradition that draws thousands of people into the city to enjoy the annual event and the light switch-on.

The celebrations will begin at 4 pm with a carol service at Gloucester Cathedral, followed by the lantern parade at 4.45 pm.

Father Christmas and the rousing Gloster Gladiators Scout Band will lead the parade from the cathedral through the city’s streets, with the Christmas lights illuminating as they pass.

They will arrive at Kings Square for the switch-on of the Tree of Light, as part of the annual Rotary Club fundraiser, with the Gloucestershire Youth Wind Orchestra performing festive and popular tunes.

Pupils from Longlevens Junior School, Robinswood, Coney Hill, Kingsway, Kingsholm, and Grange primary schools are all taking part, showcasing their creations, which they’ve been busy making in artist-led workshops.

Also, as part of the parade, Gloucester artist Helena Doyle will be illuminating the trees along The Oxbode with colourful lanterns.

The multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, and educator from Ireland, now based in Gloucester, works in installation, sculpture, video, textiles, and land art.

Helena’s stunning lanterns will come to life as the Tree of Light is switched on and remain until the end of the year as part of the Bright Nights programme.

Bright Nights is the city’s annual festival, which brightens up the dark winter months with an array of light installations and events.

Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “The Lantern Parade is a hugely popular community event and a joyful celebration of the creativity and talent of Gloucester’s young people. It’s also a chance for families to enjoy a great night out while supporting our local businesses.”

For more information, please visit Gloucester Lantern Parade & Christmas Lights Switch On 2024 - Christmas in Gloucester, Gloucester - Visit Gloucester or find out more about Bright Nights here www.brightnightsgloucester.co.uk