With the winter solstice marking a turning point towards longer days ahead, artist-led social enterprise, Art in the Docks, is busy preparing for a series of workshops for its midwinter lantern parade. Curated to bring brightness to the long, dark winter nights, the free-to-attend community festival will take place at Notting Hill Genesis’ Royal Albert Wharf development in the historic Royal Docks on Saturday the 13th of December.
‘Into the Night’ will begin at 2:30pm with opportunities for families to participate in a range of creative activities that will ensure they are parade-ready when the sun sets. These include workshops on lantern decoration, creating magical festive wands and making handcrafted musical instruments. Pupils at local schools will also participate in crafting workshops in the days leading up to the parade, ensuring even more people can get involved in the winter solstice celebrations.
At 4pm, the lantern parade will begin from Pumphouse Square in the heart of Royal Albert Wharf. Families and friends will be invited to showcase their new creations, joining a brass band and troupe of illuminated stilt walkers in their procession around the residential development. The festivities will culminate outside Cafe Spice in a traditional east London sing song, accompanied with hot drinks and finger food. There will also be a street vendor and drinks from a licensed bar.
Christopher Mike, Artist at Art in the Docks comments: “At Art in the Docks, we believe creativity and community go hand in hand. That’s why we’re committed to bringing local residents together through a creativity-led celebration of the vibrant Royal Docks community. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to Royal Albert Wharf for ‘Into the Night’, an enchanting evening of crafting, light, and connection.”
James Glass, Director of NHG Places at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “‘Into the Night’ is a celebration of the dynamic community emerging alongside the award-winning regeneration of the Royal Docks. As a development designed to support local residents and businesses, we’re thrilled to see Royal Albert Wharf at the heart of this event. We look forward to welcoming the community to our neighbourhood for an evening of creativity and connection.”
“‘Into the Night’ is a celebration of the evolving community growing around the award-winning regeneration taking place at Royal Docks. As a development created to support local residents and businesses, we’re delighted that Royal Albert Wharf is taking centre stage during this event. We are looking forward to welcoming the community to our neighbourhood”
