Make Your Own Lantern for the Harlech Christmas Lantern Parade

Harlech’s first Lantern Parade is coming to town on Saturday, 29th November — lighting up our historic streets with a magical glow! Families, friends, and local groups are invited to join the festivities and create their very own lanterns to carry through the town.

We’re adding a little friendly competition too — bring your brightest, most creative lantern for your chance to win some fantastic prizes! Whether you’re an expert crafter or simply love getting creative with the kids, making your own lantern is easier than you might think. Here are a few fun ideas to help you get started…

Willow & Tissue Lantern (Parade Favourite)

If you want to make something show-stopping — this is the traditional lantern parade style.

You’ll need:

• Willow sticks or garden canes

• Masking tape

• Wet-strength tissue paper

• PVA glue (mixed 2:1 with water)

• LED light or battery fairy lights

  
  

How to make:

1. Shape the willow into a frame — try a star, pyramid, or globe.

2. Tape the joints together with masking tape.

3. Cover the frame with tissue paper using your glue mix.

4. Leave to dry overnight, then pop your light inside.

   
   

You can decorate with glitter, metallic stars, or paint for a stunning finish!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ro-Ex1qfac

DIY Lantern Hack – Start with a Ready-Made One

If you’d rather skip straight to decorating, start with a plain white lantern like this one from The Paper Lantern Company.

Then personalise it:

• Add tissue paper shapes or coloured panels.

• Use eco-friendly paint pens to draw stars or snowflakes.

• Wrap soft fairy lights inside for a magical glow.

• Attach to a stick or bamboo pole with strong wire or string.

  
  

It’s a simple way to take part — and it looks beautiful under the night sky!

Don’t forget:

• Use LED lights only (no candles).

• Dress warmly and bring your lantern pole or handle.

• Arrive early to join the parade safely. The parade starts at 5 PM.

  
  

Let’s fill Harlech with light, laughter, and creativity this November — we can’t wait to see your glowing designs!

Win Prizes at the Harlech Lantern Parade!

Join us on Saturday, 29th November for this year’s Harlech Lantern Parade, part of the town’s festive celebrations. The streets will come alive with glowing lanterns, laughter, and live entertainment — and there’ll be prizes for the most creative designs! Bring your handmade creation and be part of one of Harlech’s most enchanting evenings of the year.

Exciting Prizes Await!

We have some fantastic prizes lined up for the winners. Here’s what you can win:

Donated Prizes:

• Caffi Llew Glas, Harlech - Drinks and cakes for a family (four people)

• Caddy Café, Harlech - Family food voucher (value TBC)

• Hufenfa’r Castell, Harlech - Family Ice Cream voucher (five people)

• Castle Hair Studio, Harlech - Basket of hair treatment products

• The Ship Aground, Talsarnau - Family Sunday lunch (four people)

• RED Performance, Talsarnau - £100 Car Valet

• The Pit Stop Food Bar, Talsarnau - £40 Food voucher

• Caffi Castell, Harlech - £40 Food voucher

• Bay View Restaurant, Llanaber - £40 Food voucher

• Y Gwyllt Snowdonia Wilderness Café, Harlech - £40 Food voucher

• Cae Du Designs, Harlech - A nice woollen wrap/shawl

• North Wales Sauna Company - A family sauna

• Morfa Garage, Harlech - Free MOT Test

• Bean & Blwm - £40 Food Voucher

• Castle Cottage Inn - £50 Restaurant Voucher

  
  

Join the Fun!

The Harlech Lantern Parade is not just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit and creativity. Everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of crafting skill. Whether you make your lantern from scratch or decorate a pre-made one, your contribution will add to the festive atmosphere.

As the sun sets, the streets of Harlech will transform into a dazzling display of lights. Families and friends will gather, sharing in the joy of the season. The parade will be filled with laughter, music, and the warmth of community.

Tips for a Successful Lantern Parade Experience

To ensure you have the best experience at the Harlech Lantern Parade, consider the following tips:

1. Arrive Early: Getting to the parade early will allow you to find a good spot and soak in the atmosphere before the festivities begin.

   
   

2. Dress Appropriately: The weather in November can be chilly. Wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes to enjoy the evening fully.

   
   

3. Bring Extra Supplies: If you’re crafting your lantern on-site, bring along extra supplies like glue, tape, or decorations. You might want to make last-minute adjustments!

   
   

4. Capture the Moment: Don’t forget to take photos! The glowing lanterns against the night sky will create beautiful memories.

   
   

5. Share the Experience: Invite friends and family to join you. The more, the merrier!

   
   

Let’s make this year’s Harlech Lantern Parade a night to remember. We look forward to seeing all the creative lanterns and celebrating together!