The Watercress Line is set to launch its festive season on Friday, November 24 with a Christmas lantern procession through the streets of Alresford.
Schools, scouts, churches, families, local businesses and care homes have been invited to take part in the parade, a new event for the community. The lanterns, which are made of willow and paper, will make up a colourful and impressive parade to herald the start of the Christmas season, setting off from Perins School at 5.30pm. To further add to the wow factor, after the procession has travelled from Jacklyn’s Lane, via West Street and Station Road, it will arrive in front of Alresford Station just in time to see the arrival of this year’s new Steam Illuminations train lit up in all its glory.
To round off the evening, there will also be live festive music with traditional folk band Shantyhead for all the community to enjoy. With the beautifully decorated Alresford Station, the aromas of mulled wine, and delicious refreshments, whether you are a participant or a spectator, the evening should be a night to remember.
The Watercress Line’s interim CEO, Rebecca Dalley, said: “We are excited that the launch of the Watercress Line Steam Illuminations event train will be celebrated with this brilliant lantern procession. It is a wonderful endorsement of the important place that our Christmas train plays in the lives of local people that so many are getting involved to mark the start of the festive season.”
The lantern procession is free to observe. Tickets for Steam Illuminations must be booked in advance at https://watercressline.co.uk/steam-illuminations/
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