Wells Lantern Festival is blasting back next January – and this year it's going full sci-fi

Wells is about to swap winter gloom for galaxies, rockets and the odd alien invasion as the city's Lantern Festival returns on 17 January 2026 with a bold new theme: It Came From Outer Space.

Organisers say this year's celebration will be "the biggest yet", complete with new committee members, fresh branding and a shiny new Instagram page to follow for hints, sneak peeks and inspiration. And if you spot mysterious "Lantern Fest Stars" popping up around the city in the coming weeks, that's all part of the build-up.

The main event, as always, starts in Wells Cathedral. Lantern-bearers will gather in the Cloister before lining up at 6.15pm, with the procession moving off at 6.30pm. Anyone with a lantern – old, new or vaguely alien – is encouraged to bring it along.

For the first time, three prizes are up for grabs: Best in Festival, Most Outrageously Illuminated, and the Cosmic Comedy Award for the lantern that gets the biggest laugh. Every creation still gets a sticker, so no one goes home empty-handed.

Ahead of the parade, lantern-making workshops will run at the Blue School sports centre on Kennion Road. Dates are 13 and 14 December, and 3 and 4 January, with two sessions each day from 10am to 1pm and 1pm to 4pm. A simple willow-and-tissue lantern can be sorted in one sitting, though the more ambitious space cadets may need extra time.

Workshops cost £5 for a basic lantern and £2 per string of lights, with additional material charges for larger builds. All children must be accompanied, and under-8s need one adult each. Anyone looking to book an extra workshop can email [email protected].

On the night itself, two bands will power the procession. The Bristol Ambling Band returns to lead the way, while Samba Do Bispo will bring the beat at the back.

Organisers say residents should expect food, music and dancing to help brighten the January chill. Wrap up warm, bring your lantern, and get ready to help light up Wells with a night that's shaping up to be out of this world.

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