Lantern-making begins for River of Light 2023

November 6, 2023  |  By Lisa Scagliotti 

The 2022 River of Light parade fills the intersection of Stowe and Main Streets in Waterbury. Photo by Gordon Miller

Toys and Games is the theme for this year’s River of Light lantern parade set for Saturday, Dec. 2, and lantern-making is already under way. 

The 14th annual event features a nighttime parade with marching bands and hundreds of illuminated willow-and-paper lanterns made by school children and community members of all ages. 

Workshops are happening this weekend at Brookside Primary School. Organizer MK Monley says the Saturday family workshop is already full but there is room in two Sunday community workshops taking place from 10 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. Monley along with fellow artists-organizers Sarah-Lee Terrat and Mame McKee will assist participants in making their parade lanterns. Children are welcome with those 8 and under needing an adult with them. Space is limited so registration is important using these online forms. 

All materials are provided at the workshops which are free although donations are gladly accepted. 

On Dec. 2, the parade will form at Brookside Primary School and begin at 5 p.m. sharp. The procession will include street samba band Sambatucada and Brass Balagan. Both musical groups are regulars in the parade and travel from Burlington to take part.  

The parade route leads down Stowe Street to Main Street, turning right toward Dac Rowe Park for the finale. At the park parade participants and spectators can enjoy bonfires and hot chocolate and entertainment by the parade bands and the popular Cirque de Fuego fire spinner performers from Jericho. 

A note on parking: No parking is allowed in the front lot at the primary school although the lots behind the school are available. Organizers encourage people to park at Dac Rowe Park, the municipal offices, near the post office or at Anderson Field. 

Find parade and lantern information online here.