Leigh’s annual lantern parade returns for another spectacular night this November

Leigh’s much-loved lantern parade, Light Up Leigh, is set to return for 2026.

The event will take place on Saturday November 14, bringing together a spectacular evening full of creativity, community spirit and festive magic.

Activities will begin at 12pm, with a programme of events for all ages to enjoy. From live music on the community stage, to seasonal craft workshops, there will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to get involved ahead of the evening’s glowing parade.

As the sun sets, the parade will depart from Leigh Miners Welfare Institute from 5.15pm, with illuminated lanterns, gigantic puppets and mesmerising performers lighting up the streets as it moves throughout the town centre.

Local community groups and primary schools, such as More Than Words and Spirix Collective are already signed up to feature in the parade, carrying handmade lanterns and spreading joy as they go.

Amy Hodgson, creative director of the Light Up Leigh parade and founding director of Spirix Collective, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to see Light Up Leigh grow into an event that brings so much creativity, energy and community spirit to the town. “As a Leigh-based arts organisation, Spirix is passionate about the role arts and culture can play in regenerating our town centre, bringing people into our streets, celebrating local talent and creating a stronger sense of pride in where we live. “Light Up Leigh is a brilliant example of what can happen when local people, artists, businesses and community groups come together. This year, we’re building on that ambition to create our biggest and most exciting celebration yet, showcasing the creativity of Leigh and the people who make it special.”

The parade will come to a close at the newly regenerated Leigh Civic Square, where the celebrations will continue into the evening. Visitors can look forward to performances from local musicians and dance groups, live DJ sets, delicious local food stalls and plenty more.

Hannah Thompson, programme manager of Down to Earth, said:

“The ambition and artistic quality of Light Up Leigh has grown enormously over the past few years, but what makes it truly special is the community behind it.

“From incredible local artists and community groups to residents championing more creativity, connection and joy in their town, there is a real sense that people want to come together, experience something exciting and feel proud of Leigh.

“That growing sense of creativity and belonging is what Light Up Leigh is all about.”

Light Up Leigh is proudly presented by Down to Earth, Wigan Council and Spirix Collective, and is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and funding by UK Government.

Coun Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said:

“It’s fantastic that this impressive and much-loved event will be back in Leigh again this November and we’re very proud to be supporting it.

“The cost of living is high on everyone's agenda, so it’s great to be able to bring a fabulous, free event to Leigh town centre for all the community to enjoy.

“It’s also a brilliant way to bring families and artists together and to give children and young people an early experience of a cultural event that I’m sure they’ll remember and that could have a lasting positive impact.

“I’m very much looking forward to it, and I’d encourage everyone to come along if you can.”

Local residents are encouraged to come along, bring friends and family, and be a part of what promises to be another unforgettable night for Leigh.

Local organisations and community groups are welcomed to walk in the parade; if you’d like to feature in Light Up Leigh, get in touch via email at [email protected].

For the latest announcements, event updates and all things Light Up Leigh, follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lightupleigh and Instagram at @lightupleigh.

For more information on Christmas events across the borough, go to visitwigan.com.