A NIGHT among Amazonian animals is the tantalising promise behind this season’s Lantern Parade in Newton Abbot.
The dazzling event is set to take place in the town centre on the evening of Wednesday December 11 and will showcase the talents of youngsters from the town’s primary schools.
Any number of exotic beasts from the world’s largest rainforest is expected to feature in the illuminated spectacle that draws in the crowds year after year.
Starting at 6.30pm from Bearnes Primary School in Queen Street, the procession will pass through Courtenay Street and come to a halt at St Leonard’s Clock Tower.
Outside Santa will be looking forward to meeting his young fans while anyone wanting to take a fireside selfie in is grotto can pop into the tower itself.
Live music will accompany the celebrations and late night shopping will no doubt prove popular with present-hunters.
Anyone feeling peckish or looking for something to drink can choose from the nearby pubs, bars and cafes or check out the street food stalls for extra choice.
‘It may be the middle of December but a visit from some amazing animals of The Amazon will add a little tropical warmth to our festive celebrations,’ said Natalie Hicks, Events Co-ordinator at Newton Abbot Town Council.
‘All the entertainment will be free and we hope everyone has a really wonderful evening.’
Events to enjoy before the Lantern Parade include 10am – 3pm Sunday Markets on December 1 and 8, with another to follow on December 15.
Each will feature food, drink and crafts with live music from acts such as Gypsy Dreams.
The annual Victorian Evening on Wednesday December 4 will include carolling, live music, walkabout acts and free visits to Santa.
As always it will centre around the many charity stalls with those taking part dressed in period costume and hoping to take the title of best dressed team.
This year’s Dog-Friendly Carol Service is set to take place between 12 noon and 1pm in Wolborough Street on Saturday December 7 while on the same day between 10am – 12 noon live music will be performed in Courtenay Street by The Salvation Army Band.
Afterwards the Spectrum Concert Wind Band will invite the crowds to join them for carols until 2pm, again in Courtenay Street.
Anyone missing the Salvation Army’s first performance will have another chance on Saturday December 14 and again on Saturday December 21.
Other events to look forward to include carols in Courtenay Street from the children of Highweek Primary School between 2.15pm – 3.15pm on Monday December 16.
The 6.30pm Mayor’s Carol Service at St Leonard’s Clock Tower will be on Wednesday December 18 while earlier that day, between 4pm – 5pm, pupils from Canada Hill Primary School will be in Courtenay Street performing a selection of carols.
The Spectrum Concert Wind Band take over at 6pm with another appearance scheduled for 12noon – 2pm on December 21.
‘The high street is about so much more than shopping, it’s a social thing,’ said Natalie.
Some images above from previous Christmas events in Newton Abbot.
