Illuminate 2026: Looking UP

Boston's Heritage-Inspired Winter Lantern Parade
Parade from approximately 5:45pm (final timings to be confirmed)
Free family event

Join us for Illuminate 2026, Boston's annual heritage-inspired winter lantern parade, as the town centre comes alive with light, colour and creativity ahead of the Christmas Festival Weekend.

Each year, Illuminate celebrates a different aspect of Boston's rich history and identity through spectacular community-created lanterns, costumes, puppets and performances. In 2026, we're inviting everyone to Look Up.

Inspired by the remarkable sculptures, carvings and hidden artistic details that decorate Boston's buildings and skyline, this year's parade celebrates the fascinating features many of us walk past every day without noticing. From carved faces in stonework and weather vanes above rooftops to intricate wooden carvings and architectural details both historic and contemporary, we'll be shining a light on the hidden treasures that make Boston unique.

Leading up to the event, local residents, schools, community groups and organisations will work with lead artist Ruth Pigott of Curiosity Creators and our cohort of regular incredible Illuminate artists to design and create a stunning collection of illuminated artworks inspired by discoveries shared through our community Snapshot Gallery project.

As darkness falls, these creations, and some favourites from past parades, will fill Boston's streets in a dazzling procession, expertly delivered by our logistics lead Jamie Hakwer of JRH Services, creating a magical celebration of local heritage, creativity and community spirit.
Whether you're taking part or cheering from the sidelines, Illuminate 2026 promises an unforgettable evening for all ages, just like previous years.

Get Involved
Photo submissions open from 1 August to 31 August 2026.
Help shape this year's parade by contributing to our Looking Up Snapshot Gallery. During August, we're inviting residents and visitors to photograph the sculptures, carvings and architectural details that make Boston unique. The images submitted will help inspire the lanterns, puppets and costumes featured in Illuminate 2026.
https://transportedart.com/projects/looking-up-snapshot-gallery/

Free workshops for the public to create lanterns (bookable events) and drop-in activities at our stall in the market place will be announced soon!

Accessibility
The parade takes place outdoors in Boston Town Centre. Further information on timings, route details and accessibility arrangements will be published closer to the event.

Supported By
The Illuminate Parade and bespoke artwork creations are made possible through funding from Arts Council England's National Lottery Project Grants, delivered by Transported and supported by Boston Borough Council and the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership StoryTellers NPO programme.