Hopetown Lantern Parade 2026

We’re lighting up January with a magical community event for local families! We’re excited to welcome children and their grown-ups to take part in our lantern making workshop and the following lantern parade. This event is spread over two dates within a week of each other: 

17th January, 10am-4pm – Lantern Making: Young creators will design and build their very own lanterns following expert advice and guidance. Be as creative as you like. If it’s railway themed, even better! 

24th January, 3.30pm-4.30pm – Lantern Parade: A week later, those beautiful lanterns will take centre stage at the Lantern Parade - a glowing, colourful celebration full of creativity, imagination and community spirit! Gather at Hopetown from 3.30pm ready for the parade at 4pm.

What’s included:

• Fun, hands-on lantern-making workshops for children
• A magical lantern parade through Hopetown Darlington
• A family-friendly evening full of light, colour and atmosphere

 This is a wonderful opportunity for children and their grown-ups to create something special, build confidence, and be part of a unique public celebration. All ages welcome. 

This event is proudly sponsored by Skin Deep Tattoo Studio.