Lantern characters march to illuminate the town

Ashbourne is preparing for a magical Christmas event as hundreds of lantern creations take to the streets. The lanterns, crafted from willow and paper, have been transformed into imaginative figures such as jellyfish, gingerbread men, mice, and even a dragon for the Ashbourne Christmas Lantern Spectacular.

The parade will feature a total of 300 lantern characters and will begin at St Oswald's Church at 18:30 GMT on Friday. Steve McQueen, a director at Ashbourne Arts, one of the organizers of the event, described Ashbourne as "a small town with a big tradition."

Each year, new lanterns are crafted specifically for the parade, while previous designs are stored for reuse when possible. The creation process started in October with contributions from local schoolchildren, scout groups, and army trainees.

The procession is scheduled to reach the marketplace Christmas tree after 19:00, where attendees can join in singing carols around the tree. Road closures will be in effect along the parade route from 17:00 and may last until 20:30.

Commentary: Ashbourne’s Christmas Lantern Spectacular - A Tradition Worth Celebrating

The annual Ashbourne Christmas Lantern Spectacular is set to light up the streets once again, with hundreds of imaginative lanterns taking center stage. This beloved tradition, which sees the transformation of willow and paper into vibrant figures, brings together the local community in a display of creativity and festive spirit. The parade, featuring 300 unique lantern creations, will be a visual feast for all who attend.

What makes this event particularly special is its deep-rooted connection to Ashbourne's identity. As Steve McQueen, a director at Ashbourne Arts, put it, Ashbourne is “a small town with a big tradition.” The involvement of local schoolchildren, scout groups, and army trainees in crafting the lanterns not only showcases the town’s creativity but also reinforces the sense of community and shared responsibility that defines the event. The painstaking work that goes into creating these lanterns ensures that each year brings new and exciting designs, making every parade feel fresh and unique.

Furthermore, the event serves as a reminder of the power of local traditions to bring people together. It’s not just about the lanterns themselves but also about the opportunity for residents and visitors alike to gather, sing carols, and celebrate the holiday season as one community. The fact that the event is free to attend and open to everyone only adds to its charm.

For those planning to attend, it’s important to be aware of road closures along the parade route, which will begin at 17:00 and last until approximately 20:30. However, these closures are a small inconvenience in light of the festive atmosphere and the joy the parade brings to Ashbourne each year.

In conclusion, Ashbourne’s Lantern Spectacular is more than just a holiday event – it’s a testament to the power of tradition, community, and creativity. Whether you’ve attended in the past or are planning to experience it for the first time, this year’s parade promises to be another unforgettable celebration of Christmas in Ashbourne.

Sources:

• Lantern characters parade to light up town

Author: Olivia Parker
Olivia Parker is a journalist and editor with over 8 years in media. She focuses on culture, arts, and social issues, skilled in feature writing and critical reviews.