Bolsover Lantern Parade 2025 - FAQs
Bolsover Lantern Parade 2025 - FAQs
On Saturday, 29th November, Junction Arts will stage the 32nd Bolsover Lantern Parade. We can't wait to see you there! Below is a list of frequently asked questions. If you have a query, that is not addressed below, please email us info@junctionarts.org
Where does the parade start?
The parade starts at Bolsover Castle and then travels through the town via High Street and Town End, culminating at the Cenotaph.
What time does it start?
The parade leaves Bolsover Castle at 5pm.
Can I walk in the parade?
If you have a lantern or your child (under 16) has a lantern you are welcome to walk in the parade. Meet at the castle from 4pm.
Where can I watch the parade?
You can watch the parade on the streets on the parade route.
Where can I park in Bolsover?
Parking in Bolsover is FREE, so the town gets very busy. Please note that parking will NOT be available in the Middle Street car park. However, you can park in Welbeck Medical Centre on Welbeck Road. Please DO NOT park on High Street as this is narrow, and we want as much room as possible to ensure the safety of parade participants and vehicles.
For a parking map, click here.
What roads are closed for the parade?
Junction Arts, with support from Premier Security and Bolsover Police, will be operating temporary rolling road closures for the Parade on Saturday, 29, November, effective from 4:50-6pm. Castle Lane is closed all day, rolling road closures from 5pm-6:30pm: High Street, Hornscroft Road, Town End. This will also affect the town’s car parks while the Parade is going through the streets.
Is the parade free to attend?
The Bolsover Lantern Parade is a non-ticketed, FREE event, but Junction Arts welcomes donations to support the continuation of this magical and memorable event within the town. There will be collection buckets on the parade, or you can Text BOLSOVER to 70085 to donate £5.
Texts will cost the donation plus one standard network rate message, and you’ll be opting to hear more from us. If you want to donate but don’t want to hear more from us, please text BOLSOVERNOINFO instead.
Will there be a prize for the best lantern?
Yes, winners will be picked in the following five categories. Each winner will receive a £30 gift card. To enter, you will need to have your lantern photographed by the Junction Arts team. Look out for the RED Junction Arts flags at the castle or speak to a member of the team. Winners will be announced on social media w/c 1st December.
- Most Creative Lantern
- Most talked about on the night
- Best Small Lantern
- Best Medium Lantern
- Best Large lanterns
Is entry to Bolsover Castle free on parade day?
Thanks to hosts at English Heritage, Bolsover District residents can take advantage of exclusive free access to Bolsover Castle between 10am and 4pm on Parade Day (Saturday, 29th November) with proof of Bolsover residency (e.g. a utility bill). Book tickets online using CODE: LANTERNBLLYN7.
Can we bring dogs into the Castle or on the parade?
Well-behaved dogs on leads can come into the Castle and walk in the parade. Dogs cannot go indoors at the Castle.
What else is happening in Bolsover on Saturday?
The Bolsover Christmas Market starts at 10 am and will include craft stalls spread right across the town – from Cavendish Walk and the Assembly Rooms, to Old Bolsover Yard and Bolsover Castle.
There will also be live music and entertainment in the Town Square.
More information can be found here.