The Moby Dick Lantern Parade and On Land’s Edge
Small World Theatre is partnering with On Land’s Edge festival to bring a spectacular community lantern parade celebrating 70 years since the filming of Moby Dick in the bay, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The new Moby Dick project brings together artists, historians, environmental voices and local residents to explore the legacy of Moby Dick in Fishguard and Goodwick. It also highlights the area’s rich maritime heritage and the importance of ocean conservation.
The Moby Dick Lantern Parade
At the heart of the project will be a magnificent lantern parade created by our artists and led by a giant illuminated white whale. We'll be working in Goodwick and Fishguard to make lanterns for the procession that will be held on 25 September 2026.
Alongside the parade, there will include talks, exhibitions, film screenings, and creative installations, including a digital AR whale experience above the bay. It is hoped that the digital whale will become part of the Art Afoot Sculpture Trail that links the twin towns.
The legend returns to the shore
In 1956, Hollywood arrived in north Pembrokeshire. Scenes of Ahab’s ship, the Pequod, were filmed in Fishguard Bay, with local people cast as extras and the town transformed by the presence of film stars and crew. Stories from that time have become part of local folklore. A model whale (21 meters long) was lost at sea during production, becoming a legendary tale, with stories claiming it broke its mooring and set sail for Ireland. These memories and more are resurfacing as part of a vibrant, community-led project.
Get Involved
We’re inviting the communities of Goodwick and Fishguard to take part by joining a lantern making workshop, sharing memories with the OLE team, and following the Moby Dick Parade!
Contact
On Land's Edge: Paul Howe, Cheif Exec and Theatre Manager
Small World Theatre: Sam Vicary, Comms Manager
