300 lanterns will light up Fratton

Fratton is getting ready to shine at the 6th annual Festival of Lights, on Thursday 5th December from 6pm to 8.30pm.

Starting at the Royal British Legion Club, in Lucknow Street, the lantern parade will process down Fratton Road to St Mary’s Church.
 
The theme this year is ‘’The Sea’’ so look out for jellyfish , squid and puffer fish in Fratton Road . Not to mention a Whale and the annual return of the Fratton Fox.
 
Over 300 people have made lanterns in workshops in Fratton ready for this event.
Many will be returning to carry them on the night but there are also lanterns kindly made for other participants  to carry.
Or you can make your own lantern at home and join in the parade but please remember they must be lit by battery torches.
 
As in previous years, the parade will be led by the Batala Samba Band. There will be free warm drinks available for paraders at the church, refreshments on sale. Entertainment includes Top Banana Circus, St Mary’s Choir, Pebbles on the Beach Drama  and Batala .
 
This is also great chance to discover what Fratton Big Local has been doing in the area and chat about future plans including contributing ideas to PCC’s ‘’ Future High Street’’ Bid.
 
Father Bob White, Chair of Fratton Big Local, said:
 
‘The Festival of Lights in Fratton is always a great community occasion and a chance to celebrate together and enjoy the lanterns made by local people. Fratton Big Local seeks to work with others to light up Fratton and show to others what a great place this is – I hope we might see you there!’