Having established itself as the highlight of the Kalari-Lachlan River Arts Festival over the last few years, the lantern parade is a spectacular display of light and colour set amidst our beautiful Lake Forbes.
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The company that has brought the lantern parade to Forbes over the past two River Arts Festivals, LightnUp Inc, based in Lismore, are asking for our help to secure them a new place of residence.
Beginning 20 years ago, the Lismore Lantern Parade, or LightnUp, has since brought their beautiful lanterns to community events and festivals all across Australia, including Forbes.
They have recently bought a new building which will become their permanent home after being forced to leave their previous base of 12 years as the building was deemed unsuitable for use.
Now their goal is to raise $30,000 to secure their new home and help pay back loans for the deposit and begin renovations on the building.
They have just 10 days to raise the money and are asking for the generous support of the many communities they visit with their lanterns to help them reach this goal, having already received over $10,000 in donations.
Without this money, LightnUp may not be able to return to towns such as Forbes, which would be a shame.
Artistic director/CEO of LightnUp, Jyllie Jackson said people’s support will guarantee a future for the Lismore Lantern Parade, lantern making and community celebration across Australia.
“It means that we can come back to Forbes next year,” she said.
“We love Forbes, it’s just beautiful and we really enjoy doing our lantern parades there.
“We’d really appreciate any support that the Forbes community can give us.”
Ms Jackson said LightnUp are looking forward to coming back to Forbes next year, but in the meantime she invites everyone to go to the Lismore Lantern Parade on June 21 for their 20th anniversary.
President of the River Arts Festival committee, Margot Jolly said LightnUp are a great organisation that has contributed greatly to the success of the River Arts Festival.
“The knowledge that LightnUp gave us, the support and the incredible lanterns brought so much to the festival,” she said.
“The lantern parade is just part of the festival now – it’s a permanent fixture and the lake and lanterns just work so well together.
“They’ve brought a lot to regional festivals and we’d love to see them back in Forbes.”
