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Byron Shire
June 26, 2026

Lismore Lantern Parade celebrates 31 years this weekend

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MacKillop Family Services at the Lantern Parade.

Join in the celebration of the Winter Solstice for its 31st year as part of the Lismore Lantern Parade’s free family event this Saturday, 21 June. 

‘The celebration is based on a breath-taking parade of lanterns, light and performance through the main streets of Lismore, travelling through the heart of the city to the banks of the Wilson’s River climaxing with theatrical performance, fireworks and a spectacular bonfire,’ say organisesrs. 

The event begins at midday with the market deLight, kids fest, and the heartbeats festival stage getting underway and the Lantern Parade departing Victoria Street at 5.30pm. It then travels up Molesworth St through the Heart of the City to Magellan Street, then past the Library, and up Dawson St into Oakes Oval. 

A wide array of local community groups and members will be joining the parade this year including MacKillop Family Services who are one of the ‘Presenting Partners’ and Resilient Lismore. 

‘MacKillop Family Services will also have a stall at the event, offering information on becoming a foster carer. We welcome everyone to come and ask all the questions they want about foster care. We welcome foster carers from diverse background,’ they said. 

Resilient Lismore at the Lantern Parade. Photo Alex Clarke

Resilient Lismore will again be carrying their HOPE lantern this year and are looking forward to coming together with the diverse Lismore community in a beautiful way to come together for joy and connection to mark the Winter Solstice.

Around 2,500 people take part in the actual parade, this includes community organisations, schools and preschools, bands and many performers. Local businesses and organisations participate as a part of their staff team building. Participants come from throughout the region – Evans Head, Byron Bay to Tweed, Tabulam, Kyogle and Casino.

Get involved and enjoy a fabulous day in Lismore this weekend. For more information see www.lismorelanternparade.com.au.



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