Newton Abbot Lantern Parade set to light up town centre with fairy tale creations

Newton Abbot’s annual Lantern Parade returns this Wednesday (10 December), bringing colour, light and crowds to the town centre as hundreds of handmade lanterns move through the streets.

The parade, which begins at 6.30pm at Bearnes Primary School in Queen Street, is created each year by pupils from local primary schools with support from Creation Myth Puppets. 

Large illuminated creations form the centrepiece of the procession, which makes its way through the traffic-free town centre to St Leonard’s Clock Tower.

READ NEXT: Rail patrols ramp up as Devon police move to stop drugs entering local towns

A spokesperson for the organisers said the event has become one of the town’s most striking winter traditions.

“The illuminations the children make are fantastic,” they said. “Every year the parade is full of colour and movement, and the streets are lined with people enjoying the atmosphere. It’s always a great moment for the town.”

This year’s theme is “Fairy Tales”, with pupils crafting lanterns inspired by classic characters and stories. 

The spokesperson said the project gives young people “a chance to be creative, to learn new skills, and to see their work celebrated in a big community event”.

ABOVE: Previous years have seen large crowds drawn to the town (Image: Newton Abbot Town Council)

A wider programme of festive activity taking place in Newton Abbot throughout December has also included Victorian Evening, Sunday Christmas Markets and late-night shopping.

Organisers are also encouraging residents to take part in the public Lantern Workshop tomorrow (Tuesday 9 December), where families can make their own glowing lanterns to carry in the parade. 

“It’s a lovely way for people to get involved,” the spokesperson said. “Anyone who joins the workshop can walk with the parade the following night.”

Alongside the procession, visitors can expect street food in Courtenay Street, live music, and late-night shopping across the town centre. 

Father Christmas will be greeting families from his sleigh in Bank Street, and the historic Clock Tower will host fireside selfie spots throughout the evening.

The Lantern Parade comes at a time when Newton Abbot has faced disruption from road closures and redevelopment works. 

ABOVE: Handmade lanterns, live music and festive activities will bring the town together (Image: Newton Abbot Town Council)

Despite this, organisers say the town has remained resilient:

“We’ve had storms, traffic schemes and challenges for local traders,” the spokesperson said. 

“But Newton Abbot has beaten the odds. Events like the Lantern Parade show the pride, creativity and community spirit that keep the town thriving.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to come early, enjoy the lights, and support local businesses as the festive season continues.