It must be love: Reading Lantern Parade returns for Valentine’s weekend

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People holding tepee-style lanterns outside a sign that reads Broad St. Mall, the name of a shopping centre in Reading
The Reading Lantern Parade is a community celebration of the season and takes place in the town on Saturday, December 7 Picture: REDA
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Bad weather may have seen the Reading Lantern Parade postponed last December, but it’s back this weekend and ready to see the town lit up. It’s perfect for a Valentine’s weekend date.

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Taking place on Saturday, February 15, the event will bring some joy and light to the town centre.

The Reading lantern parade, is organised by Reading Business Improvement District, and now has a Valentine-themed love and light parade.

Originally been scheduled as part of Reading town centre’s Christmas celebrations in December but was postponed due to adverse weather conditions.

When and where will the Reading Lantern Parade take place?

It starts at 5.30pm on Saturday 15 February. Those taking part should gather in the town a little earlier.

Hundreds of glowing lanterns and their makers will be processing down Reading town centre’s Broad Street, accompanied by musicians and glowing giant light installations with the aim of creating a warm, loved-themed spectacle as part of Valentine’s weekend celebrations.

The procession will meet outside the back of Broad Steet Mall at 5pm and will parade along St Mary’s Butts to Broad Street at 5.30pm, heading to Town Hall Square for a special musical and visual finale.

Those who made lanterns for the postponed December event are encouraged to bring them along to the parade.

Alexa Volker, Reading BID Manager, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing back Reading’s Lantern Parade to the town centre in February, after sadly having to postpone the event before Christmas.

“GLOW is a magical evening full of light, laughter and love for the whole community and we’re excited to be bringing the magic back to Reading on Valentine’s weekend.

“Whether people are celebrating with partners, family or friends, this beautifully illuminated parade with live music and a surprise visual finale will be the perfect way to make Valentine’s weekend extra special.”

GLOW, the Reading Lantern Parade, will be delivered for Reading BID by Beautiful Creatures.

More information at: visit-reading.com/whats-on/glow-reading-lantern-parade 

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