Winchester Cathedral Lantern Parade: A Festive Celebration of Christmas Creatures!

Posted: 28th November 2024

The annual Lantern Parade returns to Winchester Cathedral with this year’s theme, Christmas Creatures. Participants will enjoy an evening of music, lanterns, and festive cheer at the Cathedral – a fun night for the whole family! Winchester Cathedral’s Lantern Parade is on Thursday 28th November 2024 and starts at 5.30pm. Find out more and book on the Winchester Cathedral website www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/lantern-parade/ 

 

Starting at 5.30pm in the Cathedral Nave there will be a gathering of this year's lanterns, accompanied by live carol singing and festivities. The parade then begins at 6.30pm, with a glowing procession starting at the Great West Doors. The parade will pass through the High Street, Buttercross, and Cathedral Grounds before returning to the West Front of the Cathedral. 

 

The Very Revd Catherine Ogle, Dean of Winchester, will then select three winning lanterns, with a prize for each winner. The winning lantern creator will have the honour of switching on the Cathedral lights at the parade’s finale!

 

Event schedule

• 5.30pm: Gather in the Cathedral with your lanterns
• 5.45pm: Carol singing
• 6.00pm: Lantern judging by Dean Catherine
• 6.15pm: Group photo
• 6.30pm: Parade starts
• 7.00pm: Winner announcements and closing speech

 

How to participate
Bring your handmade lanterns, created using recycled materials and battery-operated lights. Booking is now open on the Cathedral website and only those registered will be permitted entry if capacity is reached.