In June, 15,000 people lined the streets of Belgrave as part of the annual Lantern Festival, marking the Winter Solstice. Lighting the longest night of the year, many braved the cold to bask in an abundance of community spirit.
The parade was led by Belgrave wizard Baba Desi, now 95 years old, and MC’ed by Pat Boucher from Yarra Ranges Life TV.
This year there were a lot of new lanterns on display, with colourful additions from various community groups and businesses. There were stars, planets, dragons, toadstools, Creatures of the Creek, a giant taco, a TARDIS, and even Bluey! The parade also featured performances from fire twirlers, drums, belly dancers and all kinds of street performers.
Each year, the festival is organised and funded by local businesses, along with donations from the community, Bendigo Bank, local MPs and Yarra Ranges Council.
With next year set to mark the 20th Belgrave Lantern Festival, let’s all get behind this much-loved event.
Meg Hellyer
