RESIDENTS and visitors are invited to celebrate the start of the festive season at the Looe Lantern Parade and Christmas Lights Switch-On on Friday, November 27.

Beginning at 6.20pm at Looe Library and Community Hub, the Lantern Parade will make its way through East Looe before concluding at the Seafront, where the town’s Christmas lights will be officially switched on.

The parade and switch-on will mark the beginning of the Christmas season in the town and provide an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and enjoy the festivities.

The annual event is a highlight of Looe’s festive calendar, bringing together the community and visitors for an evening of illuminated lanterns, seasonal cheer and celebration.

The switch-on will conclude with a fireworks display, providing a spectacular finale to the evening’s celebrations.

Mayor of Looe, Councillor Stephen Remington, said: “It’s almost that wonderful time of year again! We kick off the festive season with our traditional Lantern Parade and Christmas Lights Switch-On, so expect the town to be busy and full of fun.

“I always enjoy seeing Looe put on its Christmas clothes, with glittering shop windows, elf hunts, snow machines and people of all ages beginning to feel the excitement of the season.”

“I hope residents and visitors alike have a wonderful Christmas and, if you can, will start the celebrations by joining us for the Lantern Parade on November 27.”

In preparation for the Lantern Parade, members of the public got the chance to take part in a Christmas Lantern Making Workshop outside Looe Library and the town council offices last weekend.

Participants created a range of imaginative designs, including a pigeon, snowman, giant fish, shark, Santa stuck in a chimney, jellyfish, stingray, Christmas tree, and stars.

The finished lanterns will feature in the parade on November 27, lighting up the streets of Looe in style.