Hexham Lantern Parade returns on Friday 13 November 2026, presented by Queen’s Hall Arts with the support of EGGER. It is the first parade since a break in 2025.
What is planned
Northumberland artist Elaine Porter Nelson has been commissioned to make a giant woodland-inspired lantern celebrating Kielder Forest, which will lead the parade through Hexham. She is making it with local children aged 5–13 through holiday clubs and workshops. Elaine has more than 20 years of experience in willow sculpture, lanterns, parade structures and community art, and has worked on Amble Lantern Parade, Alnwick Garden Light Parade, Stockton International Riverside Festival and The Light in Durham.
Live music comes from Northern Monkey Brass Band, a North East collective of drummers and brass players who mix New Orleans funk with original music and brass versions of pop songs.
Practical details
Everyone is welcome. The parade gathers at the Bandstand in Sele Park, Hexham, from 6pm on Friday 13 November. Families are encouraged to bring their own lanterns, using battery-operated lights only. A how-to guide for making a lantern is on the Queen’s Hall Arts website.
Details are from the organiser, Queen’s Hall Arts, a registered charity and arts centre in Hexham. Official information: queenshall.co.uk. Visionary Art is not the organiser; please check the organiser’s site before making plans.