On Gaudete Sunday, the Third Sunday of Advent, which anticipates the joy of Christmas, Friends of Parkinson’s Park celebrated their 9th Lantern Parade. The evening was fine and cold, just as it should be for the season, and darkness fell to show of the lanterns as we left the Park just after sunset.

Every Parade is slightly different, this year our Guiseley Lanterns have been repaired to see us through a few more years, and we added some colourful crochet Mandalas to the collection. Drums, this year were played by The Parky Park Drummers, whilst Guiseley Brass Band did the traditional honours at Guiseley Cross for the carols.

As usual, there were many people involved in organizing, getting ready for and presenting the event – from woodchip spreaders, to lantern and cake makers, to the park decorators, lantern carriers, marshals and local churches. A comment left on the FoPP Facebook page read “thanks for a wonderfully atmospheric, festive event” to everyone involved, and to everyone who came along and enjoyed themselves.

The 2022 event was supported by Leeds Inspired and local councillors, as well as donations, and the funds FoPP raises during the year for our community events. Thanks too to local venues The Potting Shed and Full Circle for use of their premises for drumming rehearsals.