FARSLEY is set to dazzle as its hosts a lantern parade and Christmas lights switch-on event this Wednesday, November 27, starting at 6pm.
Farsley will be illuminated with a procession of lanterns crafted by the community.
More than 300 people have been involved in the lead-up to this event, dedicating their time and creativity to craft lanterns using sustainable materials.
The parade will feature a spectacular array of their creations, including three giant puppets and illuminated wildlife-themed headdresses designed by local artists Morwenna Catt, Duncan Barnett and Danny Tootell.
These artists have collaborated with Farsley’s families, primary schools and community groups in workshops across the village to bring the local residents' ideas to life.
The festival has also seen a huge contribution from West SILC Powerhouse; a specialist college providing further education for students aged 16-19 with learning difficulties and disabilities.
These young people have been at the heart of the project from its creation; from creating unique illustrations for the event’s marketing posters to decorating colourful lanterns. They have also designed and hand pressed t-shirts to raise money for the project,
This will be the first year that the Farsley-based SEN college has joined the annual lights switch on parade.
Rob Lakewood, Head of Powerhouse College, said: “The Lantern Festival has been an incredible opportunity for our young people not only from an artistic and creative project but from a community perspective.
"Seeing their artwork displayed around their community and being part of the lantern festival instils a sense of ownership, pride and confidence in our young people which is so important on their journey to independence.”
Leading the parade alongside the Powerhouse students will be local band ‘the Peace Artistes’.
Before the parade kicks off, from 5pm there will be an evening of entertainment, including marshmallow toasting and songs from the Farsley Love Pop Choir at Grumpy's Bar & Pizza.
This year's Farsley Lantern Festival also offers a chance to give back to the community. A stall outside Grumpy's on the edge of Sunny Bank Mills will be accepting packaged food donations for the local Food Bank at Pudsey Community Project.
The lantern festival has been made possible through funding from Leeds City Council’s Culture Programmes and Grumpy's Bar & Pizza.
Alex Rogerson, owner of Grumpy’s and organiser of Farsley Lantern Festival, said: “Grumpy’s has always loved being part of such a creative and supportive community.
"We hope that the spirit of the lantern parade will be replicated within the community for years to come.”
To ensure the safety of all participants and spectators, the road from Farsley Cenotaph to beyond the Library will be closed between 5pm and 8pm.
Weather permitting, an annual firework display will provide a backdrop for the official Christmas lights switch on following the parade at 7pm.
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