The Carnival of the Animals Lantern Parade

About

The Lantern Parade returns to illuminate Maidenhead town centre. The Carnival of the Animals – Lantern Parade is on Saturday 6 December, starting 4.30pm. The parade is free to attend. 

This years’ theme is Our Animal Neighbours!

The Lantern Parade is free to attend and open to all. You don’t need a lantern to take part – just head down and celebrate with the community! The Parade encourages the local community to get together, create fantastic artworks, dance and parade their fabulous creations through Maidenhead town centre.

Norden Farm is once again teaming up with SameSky. They are an award-winning community arts charity who have been creating fantastic lanterns, costumes and community events since 1987.

The Lantern Parade kicks off outside Maidenhead Town Hall at 4.30pm, with music and dancing. The parade departs at 5pm and will journey through the town, with the animal inspired lanterns lighting the way.

At 5.45pm the parade will return to the Town Hall where the celebrations continue with live music and performances – this year the incredible Bollywood Brass Band will be joining us with their energetic sound and illuminated costumes!

Lantern-Making Workshops

Get involved at one of Lantern-Making Workshops where our expert lantern makers will guide you through the process to create your own lantern to illuminate at the parade! Family Lantern Making Workshops (suitable for 6+ years) are held at Norden Farm on Saturday 22 November and Saturday 29 November at 10am. These workshops are £7 per person – pre booking is essential for this type of workshop. 

There’s a shorter workshop at Norden Farm’s Festive Market on Friday 5 December between 6pm – 7pm and 7pm – 8pm. This is for 3+ years and is £7 per lantern. Pre booking is advised.

There are also various Drop In Lantern Making Workshops based in the town centre and at Norden Farm – advanced booking is recommended to guarantee your slot. 

These drop in sessions are short and sweet lantern making, getting you parade ready in just 20 minutes! Drop in to make and decorate a simple willow and tissue lantern ready to illuminate on parade night. Head to the Nicholson Centre on Saturday 15 November and Saturday 22 November between 10.30am – 3.30pm.

If you can’t make these sessions, don’t worry! A last minute Drop In Lantern Making Workshop is at Maidenhead Library on parade day – Saturday 6 December between 10.30am – 1pm. These Drop In Lantern Making Workshops are suitable for ages 3+ years (must be accompanied by an adult) and are £5 per lantern.

•    Sat 22 and Sat 29 Nov 10am - 11am at Norden Farm (pre-booking only)
•    Fri 5 Dec 6pm - 8pm at Norden Farm (pre-booking only)
•    Sat 6 Dec Maidenhead Library (pre-book and drop in session)
•    Sat 15 Nov and Sat 22 Nov Nicholsons Centre (pre-book and drop in session)

Find out more about how to attend the Lantern-Making Workshops.