SPAN Arts is sincerely thankful to everyone who came along and helped transform Haverfordwest with their beautiful, glowing lanterns in a wonderful event that saw the community come together through art, creativity and a little bit of magic.

Children with lanterns in the Haverfordwest parade
(Di Ford)

This year's parade celebrated the Welsh tradition of Noson Galan Gaeaf, bringing ancient Welsh mythology to life with some incredible illuminated creations, including Cerridwen, Rhiannon and the magnificent White Stag.

White Stag lantern in Haverfordwest parade
(Pembrokeshire Studio)

Mayor Cllr Randell Thomas-Turner said:

“A huge thank you to SPAN Arts for organising and delivering such a wonderful event for our town. The work that goes into putting something like this together, including the community lantern-making workshops, is fantastic.

“A massive well done to everyone involved, the artists, performers, volunteers, organisers and everyone who came along with their lanterns.”

Giant purple boar lantern and owl lantern above the crowd in Castle Square, Haverfordwest
(Pembrokeshire Studio)

Events like the Lantern Parade on October 30 couldn’t happen without the dedication of staff and volunteers.

Lady peering through giant lantern in Haverfordwest parade
(Pembrokeshire Studio)

Special thanks go to the following contributors:

  • Sand Palace Arts for their stunning lanterns and brilliant workshop facilitation;
  • PFS Entertainment UK for an incredible finale;
  • Samba DOC for the high-energy beats that kept the parade moving;
  • The Reel Rebels for their wonderful songs and entertainment;
  • Rhianna Yates and Nancy Evans for their beautiful lantern designs and the hours of care and creativity they put into facilitating the workshops.
Giant lantern lady - Welsh mythology, plus children as part of Haverfordwest Lantern Parade
(Di Ford)

It's also important to recognise the investment made by Haverfordwest Town Council, which approved a £2,500 grant funding to SPAN Arts towards the delivery of the Lantern Festival.

“As a Town Council, we have a responsibility to support initiatives that bring people together, celebrate our local culture and heritage, and create opportunities for our residents.” said Mayor Randell.

Fire skills at Haverfordwest Lantern Festival
(Pembrokeshire Studio)

Credit also goes to the community in and around Haverfordwest for showing up, joining in and filling Pembrokeshire’s county town with light, imagination and togetherness.

Haverfordwest bridge lit up with the lantern procession
(Pembrokeshire Studio)