Spectacular and magical lanterns exceed expectations in Leamington

Around 1,000 lanterns were created in all shapes, sizes and colours for the event, which proceeded last Thursday evening (December 12) from the Pump Room Gardens, through the town centre and ending outside the town hall by the Rotary Tree of Light.

Children and adults had been attendng workshops to make their lanterns since November. As well as enjoying showcasing their hard work in the parade, participants were treated to songs and entertainment - including from Santa and his Elf on stilts - and were able to meet real reindeer in ‘snow’.

Organiser Stephanie Kerr from BID Leamington said: “Once again the lantern parade exceeded our expectations and was spectacular to see. Special thanks to the businesses that helped to fund it, the volunteers who helped with lantern workshops and of course the families who made their fabulous lanterns.

“It was wonderful to see the beautiful ribbon of lanterns that stretched right around the Pump Room Gardens and the children’s faces light up as they saw snow falling outside the town hall – it really was quite a special evening and lovely to see the smiles on so many faces at Christmas time.”