The idea
This will be the 7th annual lantern parade. Each year we try to introduce something different into the event. We encourage local residents of all ages to create a lantern, supported by a local professional artist. The parade takes place from the mill, where the workshops are held, through the local park and finish with refreshments and music. The walk winds along the river and culminates in a hot snack and catch up with everyone, as well as a good look at everyone's lanterns.
This year our theme will be 'We are not alone - boldly going where no man has gone before'. Participants will learn about the history of the valley, which is also known as UFO valley.
The workshops are good for mental health, raising confidence and increasing community engagement, fostering new friendships and intergenerational connections - working together to create something amazing.
We will also recycle frames from lanterns created in previous years, recovering them with the theme for this year
What we'll deliver
- Hold a series of 6 workshops
- Organise a parade for up to 400 people
- Provide refreshments to all volunteers and participants
Why it's a great idea
This project will reach sections of the community including those who are housebound and difficult to reach with all generations working together. We will link up with other community organisations with lantern making workshops, fostering new connections and friendships along the way.
Our events in previous years have been really popular and we have made progress in engaging with hard to reach areas of the village, with residents who would not normally show an interest in what started as an arts projected funded by the Arts Council. Over the years we have created a more community focus and slowly these residents are coming to the workshops and the parade.
This year we took on board comments of participants that not everybody is willing or able to attend workshops but still want to attend the parade. We are therefore providing a limited number of pre-prepared lanterns that families can take on the night. This is a trial to ensure this does not dilute the cultural/creative experience.
Steps to get it done
- Organisation of Workshops
- Organisation of Parade
- Booking of refreshments / gazebo
Events such as this contributed to the evidence provided when we were awarded the King's Award for Voluntary Service and we do hope that with your support we are able to raise funds again this year
