SAVE-THE-DATE
Saturday, Dec. 19th, 2026
Go In the Dark With A Light
A Winter Solstice Lantern Parade
Seven Islands State Birding Park
6-9pm
Join Cattywampus Puppet Council for this inaugural lantern parade as we call in the light and magic of community, connection, and creativity. We invite you to craft your own giant (or small!) lantern, illuminated costume, or other glowing & people-powered creation and join us in celebrating the winter solstice at Seven Islands State Birding Park.
DETAILS: Parking space is limited at Seven Islands so we are asking everyone who plans to attend to register and participate in the parade. We will gather at the Bluebird Barn from 6-7pm for our parade line up. There will be warm drinks and simple lantern making activities for all ages. Our parade will begin at 7pm and will include some special performances along the way. We will end back at the Barn by 8:30pm.
Scroll down for more info about our November lantern workshops, art making resources, and more!!
WORKSHOPS & ART MAKING RESOURCES
Check out our sister parades in Asheville & Atlanta for more inspiration and material suggestions!
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Sign-up to be in the parade! This parade is open to the entire community. Individuals, families, schools, neighborhood groups, and organizations are all encouraged to participate. We are looking for folks to make masks, puppets, and costumes, as well as dancers and stiltwalkers. Just be sure whatever you create can be illuminated since we’ll be parading at night! You are welcome to create your own entry or form your own parade crew and make something together. We’ll also be hosting small lantern making activities between 6-7pm the night of the parade for anyone that still needs to make something to carry. All participants must register (It’s free!).
Make Art! Sign up for one of the free workshops above and/or check out the links we’ve shared to the Atlanta Beltline and Asheville lantern parades. You’ll find more info on options for lighting and materials on both of these parade sites!
For questions or info about how to get your school, organization or community group involved in this parade, please email us at cattywampuspuppetcouncil@gmail.com.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
This project is funded in part through grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission, as well as through the University of Tennessee College of Architecture & Design.