Ilkley Town Council has announced the return of the popular lantern parade as part of its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event, taking place on Saturday 22nd November 2025.
Santa, accompanied by a live band, will once again lead the lantern parade along The Grove before switching on the Christmas lights, hosted by Your Ilkley Radio.
Local schools have been approached to host funded lantern workshops for pupils and a public community workshop, facilitated by Cecil Green Arts, will be held on Sunday 16th November 2025 at the Clarke Foley Community Hub from 11am until 3pm.
The workshop is suitable for ages 8 years and upwards. Numbers are limited, so registration for the workshop is required: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lantern-making-workshop-tickets-1605014655039
Organiser say that children must be accompanied by an adult throughout, and that glue and art materials will be used, so dress appropriately!
All families are welcome to join the lantern parade at the Christmas Lights Switch On event on 22nd November, a small number of lanterns will be available on the day, but children are encouraged to make or bring along your own.

Santa Paws: Festive photo competition winner revealed
Festive tractor run raises £45,000 for charity
Ilkley Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club celebrates successful year
Ilkley charity’s lunches bring Christmas cheer and new friendships
Night of glitz and giving as charity ball raises £20k for Sue Ryder
MP’s Small Business Award winners crowned as local businesses “fight on”
Separate waste and recycle more this Christmas
Christmas timetable revealed for Ilkley trains
Ilkley Beer Festival tops Yorkshire beer festival guide
Spanish airport operator acquires Leeds Bradford Airport in £270m deal
Changes to bus and train services over Christmas and new year
Two special parkruns in Ilkley for Christmas
Changes to bin collection dates over Christmas
Entries close in three weeks for tenth Ilkley Business Awards
Airedale NHS microbiology staff announce December strike
Classic Victorian thriller next at Ilkley Playhouse
Review: Ilkley Concert Club, James Newby & Jong Sun Woo at King's Hall
Ilkley's Christmas church advent and carol services
Community group praises council’s swift response to moor fly-tipping
Ilkley charity brings community Christmas cheer


