Each year local people, of all ages work, with artists to create lanterns to carry in this much loved community event which is now in its 12th year.

This year’s theme is “Lions and Big Cats” in keeping with the 100 year’s Celebrations. Look out for Leopards, Tigers as well as Lions and their cubs and even a Lions Mane Jellyfish! The Fratton Fox will also weave its way amongst the cats.

The Lantern Parade forms up at the rear of the Victory Business Centre, Somers Road North, PO1 1PJ and walks down Fratton Road to St Mary’s Church Yard. The fabulous Batala Samba band will lead the parade into the Church Yard where there will be performances later in the evening with local choirs and musicians. Refreshments will be on sale beneath beautifully illuminated trees.

Homemade Lanterns are very welcome but please note no naked flames, battery operated lights only.

NB: If you carry a lantern you are very welcome to keep it but please help us to reduce the environmental impact of the event by returning lights and carrying poles or sticks at the returns tent at the eastern end of the Church.

Artist Bio:

Splodge Designs is a community arts company run by artists Clare Jefferson-Jones and Paul Jones, whose practice spans textiles, puppetry, sculpture, carnival arts, music and sound. Established in 2001, Splodge Designs has a strong track record of delivering community projects, large-scale commissions and exhibitions.

Clare is a practising artist specialising in textiles, puppetry and sculpture, alongside her work as an educator and project manager. Paul is a trained musician and sound artist with a BA in Music Production, specialising in music, sound editing and creating professional-quality audio for creative projects and performances.

A key area of Splodge Designs’ practice is lantern parade arts, working with communities to design and make imaginative lanterns for public events and celebrations. They create everything from small-scale lanterns for individuals and families to large-scale lanterns and illuminated structures designed to make an impact within a parade or public space.

Through their projects, Splodge Designs brings people together through creativity, participation and shared making. They work with people of all ages and abilities, supporting participants to develop practical and creative skills while contributing to ambitious, vibrant and memorable community artworks.

Photo credit: Solent Sky Services