Residents across Newark and the surrounding areas are being warmly invited to participate in a completely free, spring-themed lantern-making workshop this February. This creative opportunity allows participants to become an integral part of the town's forthcoming Garden of Light celebration, contributing their handmade illuminations to a spectacular community display.
A Creative Opportunity for All Ages
The open workshop is scheduled for Friday, February 20, 2026, running from 10am to 3pm at the historic St Mary Magdalene Church in Newark. Expertly led by the skilled team from Lumo Workshop, attendees will craft beautiful, illuminated flower lanterns. These creations will draw inspiration from the core themes of spring, growth, and renewal, perfectly aligning with the seasonal spirit.
Timed to coincide with the February school half-term break, this session provides a wonderful, cost-free creative outlet for families seeking engaging activities. It offers a relaxed and welcoming environment where children and adults can work side-by-side, fostering intergenerational connection and shared artistic expression.
Inclusive and Accessible for Everyone
The organisers have emphasised that the workshop is designed to be fully inclusive. All necessary materials will be provided on the day, and the session will be delivered in a calm, accessible setting suitable for participants of varying ages and abilities. The event is specifically tailored for individuals aged five and above, genuinely welcoming everyone from young children to seniors.
This public workshop represents a key chance for individuals and families to get involved directly, even if they are not participating through a local school or organised community group. In the weeks leading up to the main event, Lumo Workshop will also collaborate with Newark schools and various community organisations to create lanterns across the town, ensuring widespread participation.
Be Part of the Bloom Parade
A highlight for workshop participants is the invitation to carry their finished lanterns in the enchanting Bloom Parade. This procession will be a featured part of the Garden of Light festivities on the evening of Saturday, March 7. The parade aims to inject a shared, magical moment of colour, movement, and light into the heart of Newark's town centre celebrations.
Fostering Community Ownership
This lantern-making initiative forms a crucial component of a broader community participation programme. The goal is to actively encourage Newark residents to help shape and take ownership of the live event, making it a true reflection of local creativity and spirit.
A spokesperson for Checkmate Productions, the company delivering the event, stated: "These workshops are fundamentally about ensuring every member of our community has the opportunity to participate and contribute. Whether people join through schools, community groups, or this open session, the lanterns they create will become a visible and meaningful part of the Garden of Light's tapestry."
Supporting this view, a representative from Newark and Sherwood District Council added: "Garden of Light is a celebration that champions creativity, community, and shared experiences. The lantern workshops provide a brilliant, hands-on way for residents of all ages to contribute directly to the event and help animate our town centre through visible, collective participation."
Event Details at a Glance
Main Garden of Light Event
- Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
- Time: 6pm to 9pm
- Location: Newark Market Place
- Admission: Free to attend, no booking required
The event will transform Newark Market Place with a host of attractions, including stunning illuminated installations, captivating light projections, engaging street theatre, a silent disco, and a selection of food trucks.
Lantern-Making Workshop
- Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
- Time: 10am to 3pm
- Location: St Mary Magdalene Church
- Admission: Free to attend, no prior experience needed
Please note that places for the workshop are limited and will be allocated strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Early interest is encouraged to secure a spot.
