Ashbourne Lantern Spectacular

Ashbourne Christmas Group (Ashbourne Arts, Ashbourne Churches Together, Local Traders Group and Ashbourne Town Council) and the local community once again bring festive wonder to the town with the Lantern Spectacular, starting from St Oswald’s Church at 6.30pm. Hundreds of candle-lit lanterns will drift through the streets in a glowing procession stretching over a third of a mile, finishing in the beautifully renewed Market Place.

The world-famous drummers SPARK! return to Ashbourne for this special night with a breathtaking performance that blends light, sound, and movement — an experience you’ll never forget. Visually stunning and dramatic, they’ll lead the lantern procession from St Oswald’s to the Market Square, and later perform in the streets following the Christmas carols.

Around 300 white lanterns - made and carried by members of the community - feature shoals of fish, giant jellyfish, enormous gingerbread men, stars, plus regular favourites like the polar bear, dragon and Ozzy Owl. Look out for some exciting new characters!

When the procession reaches the Market Place, a choir leads the singing of Christmas carols for a truly magical start to the festive season.

What to expect:

• Parking concessions-free from 2pm
• Shops open late
• Street closures to traffic from 5 pm
• Procession begins at 6.30 pm