Farnham was aglow with light and creativity on Thursday as the town celebrated its first-ever Lantern Festival, marking the grand finale of October Craft Month. 

The Lantern Festival was inspired by the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter and taking stock of the past and looking forward to the future. The event drew an impressive crowd of over 1,000 people, who gathered at Gostrey Meadow to take part in a memorable night of art, music, and community spirit.

During the early part of the evening, the Nefarious Picaroons set an upbeat tone for the celebration which was followed by Councillor Kika Mirylees reading a poem called Look for the Light by Matty Angel which resonated with the festival’s theme of hope and illumination.

The highlight of the event saw participants forming a lantern-lit procession from Gostrey Meadow to St Andrew’s Church. Over the course of the summer, more than 550 lantern kits were distributed to various community groups and individuals, resulting in the awe-inspiring display of handmade lanterns. 

Councillor Kika Mirylees, Lead Member for Community and Culture said: “We were absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible response and support from our community. The procession transformed the centre of Farnham into a moving gallery, showcasing the artistic talent and collaborative spirit of Farnham.”

The lanterns, which symbolise unity and creativity are on display in St Andrew’s Church as part of the communal art project until 7 November, allowing visitors to experience the magic long after the festival’s end.

The inaugural Lantern Festival not only celebrated the close of October Craft Month but also brought together residents in an extraordinary show of collective expression and festivity. It set a glowing precedent for future gatherings, reinforcing Farnham’s reputation as a World Craft Town.