Farnham Lantern Festival lights up the town

Farnham’s third Lantern Festival was its biggest, brightest and most magical yet, bringing more than 2,000 people together for a spectacular celebration of creativity and community spirit.

Handcrafted lanterns illuminated the town centre as the extended procession made its way along Union Road, South Street, The Borough, Downing Street and Upper Church Lane, finishing at St Andrew’s Church. Led by the Mayor and Mayoress of Farnham alongside the Town Crier, the procession was accompanied by live music from local country and folk band Violet Faultline.

Each lantern brought its own character and personality, showcasing the imagination, skill and collaborative spirit of local residents. Following the procession, the lanterns were displayed together at the church, creating a striking celebration of community craft and creativity.

The festival provided a fitting finale to a hugely successful Farnham Craft Month, the town’s annual celebration of its rich creative heritage, talented makers and thriving craft community. It also marked the end of the harvest season and welcomed the beginning of winter, offering an opportunity to reflect and look ahead.

Councillor Kika Mirylees, Lead Member for Culture, said: “Farnham Lantern Festival was a fantastic celebration of everything that makes Farnham such a special place. It was wonderful to see so many people of all ages getting involved, sharing their creativity and coming together as a community. The lanterns were a real testament to the imagination and hard work of everyone involved, and the atmosphere was simply brilliant.”

Farnham Town Council thanks principal sponsors Make it Farnham (Farnham BID) and Lion and Lamb Yard, and silver sponsor Frensham Heights, for their generous support. Thanks also go to Farnham Lions, The Hedgehogs Farnham, Surrey 4×4 Response, artists, makers, workshop leaders, volunteers and everyone who helped bring the festival to life.