FROME will unite for the annual lantern parade and Christmas Lights Switch On next month.

The event, which draws thousands on to town streets, is set to take place on Friday, November 21, with organisers promising “an evening of festivities”.

It will be led by Mayor of Frome, Cllr Anita Collier, who missed out on a public light switch on in 2020 due to lockdown restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Frome’s Light Switch On is such a special night for our town, not just because it marks the start of the festive season, but because it brings people together,” she said.

“Whether you’re walking in the lantern parade or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. I can’t wait to see the town shining again this November.”

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The evening will get started at just before 6pm with the arrival of the mayor and will culminate in the official light switch on at around 6.45pm.

A parade featuring hundreds of people brandishing their handmade lanterns will process from the top of North Parade, accompanied by the Samba Band, as crowds line the route. Festive food and drink stalls are planned, as well as a visit from Father Christmas.

The theme of the lantern parade this year is Peace, with community workshops running in the lead-up to the big night and lantern kits also available to take home.

Mel Day and Aliss Vaas, from Frome Lanterns, said: “We love the simple, powerful message a dove carries – peace – especially at Christmas time. We can already imagine how magical it will look with lots of dove and heart lanterns cascading down North Parade on the night.

“We’ve got family and community workshops planned as well as a specialist adult workshop for more confident crafters. There are also two middle school workshops which are always so joyful.

“All other Frome neighbourhood schools and classes can book materials and instructions through our website.”

Frome lantern making workshops:

• November 1, 10am to 11.15am, Frome Library: Family lantern workshop (free with small charge for materials)
• November 8 and 9, 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3pm, Frome Town Hall: Community workshops (free with small charge for materials)