The iconic Lismore Lantern Parade will once again light up the streets of Lismore on Saturday 20th June, kicking off with a full day of markets, live music and exciting activities.
Celebrating its 32nd year with the theme of Year of the Horse, a nod to the Chinese horoscope, the parade will draw an audience of many thousands from across the Northern Rivers and further afield.
LightnUp chief executive Jyllie Jackson said the theme will shape the Fiery Finale at Oakes Oval that ends the parade, with the horse symbolising strength, energy and movement.
“We are incredibly proud to bring the parade to the streets of Lismore for more than 30 years. It has become just an important fixture on the community calendar with 24 schools involved, along with many other community organisations,” she said.
“It seems as though every year it just gets bigger and better than the previous year.”
The day begins at 10.30am with Market deLight. Wander through an irresistible mix of regional foods, arts and crafts, and pop-up shops from local CBD businesses.
It’s the perfect place to graze, browse and soak up the festival vibe, and take the time to explore the beautiful Enchanted Windows created by local businesses.
And for the young and young at heart, KidsFest runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm. The day will be packed with activities, performances, jumping castles and hands-on fun delivered by local organisations, including Summerland Bank’s giant street games and lantern-decorating station.
The much‑loved HeartBeats Festival stage will host some incredible talent, including a special Acknowledgement of Country from the delightful Little Jarjums from Friends Children’s Centre, and a vibrant mix of music and performance throughout the day and into the evening. Scarlet Raffles, Spindarellas and Viel of Dreams are just some of the names that will entertain in crowds.
As night falls, the Parade will take to the streets, starting at the Riviera Car Park at 5.30pm, moving along Magellan Street through the Market delight, past the Library then up Dawson Street into Oakes Oval.
Along the way, keep an eye out for the friendly Bucketeers, who will be collecting donations or offering Digital Bucket cards.
Hint: Dawson Street is lovely and wide, close to Oakes Oval.
The parade ends with the powerful and unforgettable Fiery Finale at Oakes Oval, featuring large scale lanterns, performances, some gentle pyrotechnics and lots of fire.
Entry to the Finale is free, with ticketed grandstand seating now on sale.
To purchase your tickets or for further information, please go to: www.lismorelanternparade.com.au