A SPECTACULAR procession of handmade lanterns, performers and dancers will light up Ashton town centre when Tameside’s festive celebrations get under way.
The Northern Lights Lantern Parade returns on Saturday, November 14, with this year’s event taking inspiration from The Hare and the Moon.
The parade will set off at 5pm, bringing a celebration of creativity, wildlife and local landscapes to the town centre before culminating in a festive light switch-on at around 6.30pm.
Residents, schools, community groups and volunteers are being invited to get involved, with the event offering an opportunity for people of all ages to take part in one of Tameside’s annual festive highlights.
Tameside Council is working alongside local creative organisations Global Grooves, Cabasa and No Eyed Theatre to bring the event to life.
Lantern-making workshops will give people the chance to create their own illuminated designs, which can either be carried along the parade route or displayed to line the procession.
Those taking part will join local performers, dancers and artists as the streets of Ashton are transformed by a colourful display of light and creativity.
Anyone who would rather watch can also enjoy the spectacle from the sidelines, with families and friends encouraged to come along and soak up the atmosphere.
Councillor Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, 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.”
Details of lantern-making workshops are available through the InTameside website.
The council says details of festive celebrations in Tameside’s other towns will be announced in due course.