It might still be autumn, but Frome Town Council is already getting into the festive spirit and inviting everyone to save the date for one of the town’s most magical nights of the year: the annual Christmas Light Switch On.
This year’s light switch on and lantern parade is due to take place on Friday 21st November in the town centre for an evening of festivities led by the Mayor of Frome, Cllr Anita Collier. Anita missed taking part in a public light switch on in 2020 due to lockdown restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic, making this year’s event all the more meaningful.
Mayor, Anita Collier said, “Frome’s Light Switch On is such a special night for our town, not just because it marks the start of the festive season, but because it brings people together. Whether you’re walking in the lantern parade or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. I can’t wait to see the town shining again this November.”
Frome’s Christmas celebrations are all about community, creativity and of course a touch of sparkle and this year promises more of the same. As the much-loved lantern parade continues to grow, the stunning handmade lanterns will set off from the top of North Parade, accompanied by the joyous Samba Band, as crowds line the route for better viewing.
The evening will get started just before 6pm with the arrival of the mayor and will culminate in the official light switch on taking place around 6.45pm. Festive food and drink stalls are planned and of course a visit from Father Christmas.
Lantern making is at the heart of the event and it’s a great way to get creative and feel part of something special. The theme this year is ‘Peace’. Whether you’ve made a lantern before or it’s your first time, there’ll be community workshops running in the lead-up to the big night, with lantern kits also available to take home and get crafting.
Mel Day and Aliss Vaas day from Frome Lanterns said, “We love the simple, powerful message a dove carries—peace—especially at Christmas time. We can already imagine how magical it will look with lots of dove and heart lanterns cascading down North Parade on the night! We’ve got family and community workshops planned as well as a specialist adult workshop for more confident crafters. There are also two middle school workshops which are always so joyful. All other Frome neighbourhood schools and classes can book materials and instructions through our website.”
Frome lantern making workshops:
- Family lantern workshop (free with small charge for materials)
Saturday 1st November, 9.30-11.45am, Frome Library
Bring the whole family to create beautiful tall staffs decorated with hearts, doves, and leaves. - Community workshops (free with small charge for materials)
Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th November, Frome Town Hall
Make your own dove, heart, or decorated staff lantern in a fun and friendly setting. - Specialist adult workshop (£70)
Saturday 25th October 25th, 10am-3pm, location details on booking
A creative session for adults, focused on making medium-sized bird lanterns. Learn new techniques and enjoy a relaxed, inspiring atmosphere.
Please go to Frome Lanterns website for more details and for bookings.
More details about the evening will be coming soon, so keep an eye on Frome Town Council. For now, add the date in your diary and get ready to make Frome shine together.
