Illuminate 2024: Folktales

Get ready for an unforgettable evening as the streets of Boston light up with the magic of lanterns, music, and community spirit at this year's Boston Illuminate Lantern Parade! Led once again by the talented Ruth Pigott, this spectacular event promises to be bigger, brighter, and more inclusive than ever before.

This year, we're taking a bold step forward by celebrating the diverse stories and people who make Boston a vibrant, multicultural town. Moving away from the Mayflower and Pilgrim themes of previous years, this year's parade will reflect the rich tapestry of Boston's modern identity, rooted in the tales and traditions of its residents. In July, Ruth Pigott connected with the community, gathering folk tales that reflect the spirit of the people who call Boston home. These stories will inspire the themes, artwork, and lantern designs for this year's parade. Illustrator Ruth Burrows transformed these stories into vibrant artworks that helped begin the 2024 parade's visual storytelling.

Expect to see lanterns taking the shape of some well-known fairy tales, but also look out for new mystical creatures that you may not have heard the legends of before. 

In-between these illuminated enchanting characters, enjoy the schools and community dancers, towering stilt walker, lively puppets and dance along to the rhythms of live samba drumming.

This is more than just a parade—it's a celebration of the creativity and unity of Boston's many cultures. We're thrilled to be working with even more local schools and community groups, offering free workshops to hone lantern-making skills, and encouraging everyone to be part of this incredible event.

So, come and be a part of something special. Let's light up the town together and celebrate the stories that make Boston unique!

Want to join in? Transported is offering free lantern-making workshops to all. Don't miss your chance to be part of Boston's most dazzling event of the year! 

The sessions last 2.5 hours each and are open to all ages and abilities. All materials will be provided.

• Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 November, 10am to 12:30pm & 12:30pm to 3pm
• Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 November, 10am to 12:30pm & 12:30pm to 3pm

At Geoff Moulder Leisure Complex, Boston

Booking required: Lantern making workshops - Illuminate 2024 Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

Places are limited and must be booked in advance.

Any under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to lantern workshops and the 29 November Illuminate parade event and supervised at all times. Transported cannot take responsibility for under 18s but rigorous safety precautions and risk assessments will be in place.