Cardigan Giant Lantern Parade
The Cardigan Giant Lantern Parade is ON! Today at 7pm
We keep an eye on several weather forecast channels, and yes, there are strong winds and rain this afternoon. BUT this evening is looking “cloudy and breezy with a little rain”… so we’re going for it!
Grab your weatherproofs and come join the fun!
Fri 5 Dec 2025 - starts 7pm
Assemble
Public lantern makers gather at Small World Theatre from 6pm - 6.15pm to collect their lanterns and have a carrying stick fitted. There will be a safety briefing for the public lantern makers at 6.30pm. You will be guided to one of the venue’s exits to light your candle at 6.40pm and be guided into your positions in the Parade.
Schools and community groups will be contacted separately about the arrangements. Please ask your teacher/leader for information.
Route
The Parade sets off at 7pm from Pendre and head down Cardigan High Street to the quayside. We ask spectators to stay on the pavement for health and safety reasons, and also so that the parade can be fully appreciated. Please follow the procession AFTER the last giant lanterns.
Fireworks
We will congregate on the Quay to watch a spectacular low-noise firework display sometime between 7.30pm - 8pm.
The route continues
We aim to continue around the town along the Strand and up to Priory Street (heading towards Crwst) finishing in front of The Guildhall.
Donations
Small World Theatre volunteers and parade marshals will be collecting towards the Lantern Parade. This is a free event brought to you by Small World with the help of our funders and 70+ volunteers. There will be 20 collection buckets following the Parade - please give if you can.
Road closure and parking
Road closure from 6.30pm - 8.30pm includes Cardigan High Street and the old bridge by the Castle. Traffic will be re-directed along the bypass and there is entry to the town from the North. Please see map below.
Parking
All public car parks are open and parking fees apply. Please do not park on the High Street to allow for the Lantern Parade.
Other events on 5 Dec
Some shops are staying open for your enjoyment. There are other events dovetailing with the event and plenty of hospitality afterwards with bars and restaurants open.
Whatever the weather
We’d like to say that the show will go on whatever the weather, but strong winds and heavy rain may postpone the event. Please check our website and social media for announcements on the day. Wear weatherproof clothing.
Supported by
The Parade will be a major event within the Festival of Light in Cardigan. The Festival of Light is part funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, administrated and supported by the Cynal y Cardi Team for Ceredigion County Council. It is also funded by National Lottery Awards for All and Cardigan Town Council.
Road closure map
