Now that we’re officially entering our final quarter of the year (seriously, how did this happen?!) we’re getting nostalgic about some of our most enjoyable events of 2024. Today, we’re reminiscing on the Solas Na Bealtaine Lantern Parade, one of our Open Call projects that had its moment to shine in May. Care to come with us on a trip down memory lane?
What Was Solas na Bealtaine?
Solas na Bealtaine was a community lantern parade that took place the night before Towers and Tales Children’s Book Festival kicked off in Lismore. However, it was so much more than just a parade — it was a showcase of a truly collaborative community process.
Over 100 families from the Lismore area and surrounds created their own personalised lanterns with support from local maker Caoimhe Dunn and the fantastic Lismore Men’s Sheds. In the lead up to the parade, students in Scoil Náisiúnta Baile Mhic Airt were busy writing stories inspired by ancient Bealtaine folklore with support from artist Sadhbh Devlin. The stories were then audio-recorded, as Gaeilge, by artist Joey Maguire and served as the soundtrack to the parade.
The lantern promenade was also accompanied by carnival drummers, and a crowd of over 300 people came out to watch as the handmade creations lit the streets enroute to Lismore Castles. When the procession arrived at Lismore Castle, the audience were treated to a beautiful light display as artwork inspired by the young peoples’ stories was projected onto Carlisle Tower.
Who Got to Attend?
Whoever wanted to! This event was completely open to the public, with free tickets available to book online. The generous support of volunteer stewards meant that the evening was safe and well organised, and was thoroughly enjoyed by people of all ages.
What Was The Feedback Like?
Amazing! But don’t just take our word for it — look at these fabulous testimonials:
“Lasadh an spéir suas aréir i Lios Mhór le h-ealaín, focail & guthanna páistí na scoile uile. Ocáid fíor- speisialta a bhí ann ‘is cúis mhór bród dúinn. Gabhaimid buíochas ó chroí le ‘Tower and Tales’ as an deis iontach seo. Go n- éirí go geal libh” [“The sky lit up last night in Lismore with the art, words & voices of the children of the whole school. It was a really special event that we are very proud of. We sincerely thank ‘Tower and Tales’ for this wonderful opportunity. Good luck to you”]
– Scoil Náisiúnta Baile Mhic Airt
“The shed takes pride in helping out our community and one way of getting the message out there is the Lantern Parade. Our shed intends to keep being a support to the local community; this is a part of our future shed plans.”
– Lismore Men’s Shed
Were you one of the lucky attendees of Solas na Bealtaine Lantern Parade this year? Let us know how you got on!