Gloucester’s much-loved Lantern Parade will light up the city once again this November, with this year’s theme celebrating the wonders of nature. Expect to see shoals of glowing fish, colonies of ants and buzzing bees weaving their way through the city’s streets.
The annual event, organised by Gloucester City Council and Gloucester BID, forms part of the Bright Nights season — a programme of light and cultural events running until March — designed to bring warmth, creativity and community spirit to the darker winter months.
The parade will take place on Saturday, November 15, with lanterns handmade by pupils from five local schools: Beech Green, Calton Road, Hillview, Kingsholm C of E, and Upton St Leonards. For the first time, community groups including the Folk of Gloucester, Bridge Training, and Gloucester Children’s Centre will also take part.
This year’s theme, “Communities in Nature,” explores how animals and people support one another — continuing the spirit of unity inspired by Refugee Week’s theme, “Community as a Superpower.”
The celebrations 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 take place at Gloucester Cathedral, followed by live music as the parade assembles.
The main procession sets off at 4.50pm, led by Father Christmas and the Gloster Gladiators Scout Band, with the city’s Christmas lights switching on as the parade moves through the streets.
Music will be provided by The Salvation Army Band, the Gloucester Dementia Choir, and the Gloucestershire Youth Wind Orchestra for the Rotary Club’s Tree of Light fundraiser, which begins at 5.35pm.
Visitors can also take part in a free drop-in art workshop with artist Russell Haines, funded by Together Gloucester, to create a “Dove of Peace” that will be displayed in the city centre in the New Year.
Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “The annual lantern parade is a magical event that brings thousands into the city. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us all to come together and celebrate Gloucester’s unique community spirit.”
Emily Gibbon, manager at Gloucester BID, added: “The Lantern Parade and Christmas Light Switch-On are highlights of the year. They fill the city with festive cheer and showcase the incredible atmosphere that makes Gloucester so special at Christmas.”
Families can also take part in lantern-making workshops over half term with artist Ally Goff, using recycled materials to create their own glowing designs:
- Tuesday 28 October, 1.30–3.30pm – The Folk, Westgate Street
- Saturday 1 November, 11am–3pm – The Folk, Westgate Street