Magical memories are created in the Parade in town this year

MAGICAL moments have made for marvellous memories for generations of Ashburnians, following one of the biggest and best lantern parades the town has ever seen.

Many people out on

Friday remarked that the atmosphere, and sheer volume of people, reminded them of Shrovetide - it felt like that at times, with the gathering being so huge.

And what a fabulous opportunity it was for the town’s businesses to enjoy a share of the festive spending bonanza. The shops that did open late stayed very busy throughout, and it was standing room only in the pubs and cafes.

Late Night Shopping has evolved into a town centre event that people in and around Ashbourne are reluctant to miss. The town’s Christmas lights have never looked so good, all thanks to Ashbourne Town Council, and Ashbourne Arts, working with Ashbourne Churches Together, continues to up its game each year with the phenomenal display of lanterns.

So it might feel like there’s little we as a community can offer this fabulous annual event in the way of support. We turn out in our droves to see it, and volunteers to help with its creation are in plentiful supply.

But we must not forget that the street theatre acts that Ashbourne Festival brings in are expensive. They do so much to lift the atmosphere, but it’s an annual cost that needs to be met with fundraising.

So it’s a good time then, while the memories of just how wonderful this year’s event was, to remind people that they can support next year’s Lantern Spectacular with a donation. Just visit the Ashbourne Festival website at ashbournefestival.org look for the donate button. A contribution of even just a fiver will help pay for what will hopefully be another phenomenal festive display next year. And it’s worth every penny.