Northern Lights Lantern Parade kick-starts the festivities in Tameside

THE spectacular Northern Lights Lantern Parade returns to kick off the festive season in Tameside, with a magical celebration of community and creativity in the heart of Ashton.

This year the Lantern Parade will take place in Ashton Town Centre, on Saturday 14 November, setting off at 5pm and wrapping up with a festive light switch on at around 6.30pm.

Tameside Council is working with local producers Global Grooves, Cabasa, and No Eyed Theatre, to deliver the annual lantern parade for residents and visitors.

This year’s parade theme is The Hare and the Moon, and will be a joyful, magical procession rooted in Tameside’s landscape, wildlife, and imagination.

The parade brings together residents, schools, community groups and volunteers, offering people of all ages the chance to be part of the celebrations.

Lantern-making workshops will give residents the opportunity to create their own handmade lanterns, which can then either line the parade route or be carried by participants as they join local performers, dancers, and artists in the parade. Information on the workshops can be found on the InTameside website.

Everyone is invited to join the celebrations, whether by taking part in the parade, cheering from the sidelines or enjoying the festive atmosphere with family and friends.

The evening filled with fun for everyone marks the start of the festive season across the borough. Details of celebrations in the other towns to follow.

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, Cllr Leanne Feeley, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing back the Northern Lights Lantern Parade to set off the Christmas celebrations in Tameside. It is always a fantastic evening of lights, culture, community, and festivities, and we are expecting this year to be just as incredible for residents and visitors. Make sure you save the date, spread the word and come and join us as we mark the beginning of the celebrations.”