Winter is around the corner which means the return of the colourful and creative Illuminate Parade!
During the next few months, Boston will come together to make illuminated artwork in a range of activities to culminate in a festive evening of parade processioning, live music, costumes and dancing on Thursday 23rd November.
Over the years this annual event has celebrated and commemorated Boston’s rich heritage and link to Mayflower Pilgrims history, hence it always taking place on the USA’s Thanksgiving Day. This year is no exception, however 2023 will highlight two important anniversaries.
This year will be the Boston T Party Illuminate Parade.
The event is a nod to the 250th anniversary of the historic Boston Tea Party, but also to Transported, the arts organisation behind the event and much of the public art in the town, and their 10th anniversary. The ‘T’ of the tea party acknowledges the recognizable Transported ‘T’ logo.
Transported is an initiative that has been dedicated to exploring and celebrating the diverse heritage and communities of Boston and South Holland. Planning this year’s Illuminate event has unearthed several key themes that have played a significant role in shaping the region’s identity and history, including:
- Agriculture, Food & Farming
- Fish & Maritime Heritage
- Wildlife, Birds & Migration
- Diversity, Culture & Language
The Boston T Party Illuminate Parade is not only a celebration of the past but also a reflection of the enduring connections between the region’s heritage, culture, and environment. It brings together diverse elements of the community, past and present, in a vibrant and inclusive event that honours the legacy of Boston and Transported.
Artist Ruth Pigott and her team of talented artists will be working with local schools and community groups to create lanterns and illuminated artwork to incorporate these themes. The workshops aim to not only give participants the opportunity to proudly walk in the parade, but to also learn new creative skills.
Maestro Chris Lewis-Jones will also work with Boston students to build another Samba batteria to bring brilliant live music on Illuminate night and provide rhythm for the dancers, who will be adorned in handmade costumes. There’ll be a session open to the public so this is your perfect chance to become part of the heartbeat of the procession.
There will be all sorts of opportunities for the public to get involved in the activities, which will be free to take part in, over November. Check our Events page for the dates and locations for these, and don’t forget to put the parade on Thursday 23rd in your diaries!
Boston T Party Illuminate Parade is a part of a programme of festive events organised by Boston Borough Council. You can find more details about the rest of the seasonal activities here.The event is possible thanks to an Arts Council England National Lottery Grant, Transported, Curiosity Creators and Boston Borough Council.
#BostonTPartyIlluminateParade2023 #BostonChristmas2023
