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River of Light Lantern Parade

  • Hemel Hempstead BID The Management Suite, The Marlowes Shopping Centre Hemel Hempstead HP1 1DX (map)

Saturday 14 March 2026

  • 5pm to 7.30pm

  • Hemel Hempstead town centre

River of Light is a community-led lantern procession celebrating the transition from winter into spring.

Lanterns for the procession have been created through a series of workshops held across January and February in schools, libraries and community venues. More than 300 lanterns will form a vibrant display representing elements of Hemel Hempstead’s built and natural environment.

All workshops are now sold out. If you’d still like to take part in the parade, a limited number of lantern kits are available to buy from Liberty Tea RoomsLink is external and opens in new window for you to make at home.

River of Light is brought to you by Puddingstone Arts, in partnership with Dacorum Borough Council, and funded by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

How to book

Book your spectator or parade tickets using the link below.

Book your free ticket nowLink is external and opens in new window

If you’re taking part in the parade with your lantern, please book a ticket for yourself and for each member of your group.

What's on

This family-friendly evening will feature a range of activities for all ages, including:

Event times

  • 5pm - Event starts - gather with lanterns at the rainbow stage

  • 5.15pm - Entertainment 

  • 6pm - Event opening - welcome from the Mayor of Dacorum

  • 6.15pm - Parade departs 

  • 6.30pm - Entertainment at Riverside, including the Riverside choir

  • 6.45pm - Parade returns to the Rainbow Stage, marking the symbolic return of spring

  • 7pm - Closing speeches

More information


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