Beeston’s beloved Lantern Festival is back to brighten up the winter nights. On Friday 12 December, locations around Beeston will sparkle with thousands of twinkling lights — and everyone is invited.
This year’s festival promises something for all ages, including: festive music and drama, a new creative competition, community awards, free hot food, real farm animals and of course the sparkle of fairy lights.
The event begins at 4:15pm with three local gatherings at:
St Luke’s Church on Malvern Road, LS11 8PD
St Mary’s Church on Town Street, LS11 8PN
Rowland Road Social Club, LS11 6ED
Join us at these venues for christmas activities, live music, light refreshments, and real donkeys.
At 5pm, the community will come together for a light parade from all three starting points, led by donkeys, heading to Cross Flatts Park for the main event.
Cross Flatts Park will be transformed into a bright and sparkling wonderland, with free hot food for everyone and a gift for every child.
The event will include a dramatic retelling of the Christmas story, a children’s choir, a community gospel choir and a short Carol Service with a Salvation Army Band.
We’ll be celebrating stars of the south Leeds community with community awards. Farm animals, illuminated den building and a creative play area will keep people of all ages entertained. The festivities will conclude at 6:30pm, leaving hearts full and spirits bright.
This year introduces a special lantern-making competition. Individuals, families, schools, and community groups are invited to create their own lanterns and bring them to Cross Flatts Park by 5:30pm on 12 December.
The first prize is a £50 shopping voucher, with a runner up prize of £20 voucher. Please note: The lantern should not have a naked flame.
Now in its 12th year, the Lantern Festival continues to grow, bringing joy and unity to Beeston. We’d love to see people from every corner of our community come together to celebrate Christmas and share light in the darkness.
Spread the word — invite your family, friends, and neighbours.
For more details, visit Fb.com/LanternFestivalLS11
This post was written by Alex Fleming
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