Ashton Lantern Parade 2023

Wednesday, 22 November 2023 09:48

Ashton saw its annual lantern parade as well as its Christmas light switch-on last weekend.

The event, which was a combined effort from Tameside Council, local residents, businesses, and artists, was led by Global Grooves in collaboration with Cabassa and No-Eyed Theatre. It was a huge success with hundreds of families in attendance.

The festive evening saw a spectacular combination of local dancers and singers performing as well as music, lanterns and large puppets which weaved their way around the town to make their way to the market square, which was flooded with fairground rides, markets and food.

Councillors and council officials joined in on the parade as well as members of the public.

The magical night was made even more magical when a very excited audience were greeted by Father Christmas who assisted the Civic Mayor of Tameside, Tafheen Sharif with the dazzling light switch on, which lit up the Christmas tree and a plethora of lights around the market square.

Councillor Dan Costello, a conservative councillor for Ashton Hurst who attended the event said, “I was delighted to see such a fantastic attendance again at this year's Lantern Parade. This annual event really kicks off the festive period in Tameside. It is a wonderful event to bring the whole community together, and its ability to attract families into the town centre is a great boost for our local businesses."