Support fearless local journalism!
East Side Story is fully independent. Your monthly support helps us report freely and focus on stories that matter in East Leeds.
Support us for just £5 a month

Lantern Workshops Open as Volunteers Sought for Manston Park Parade

1 min read
316 views
January 16, 2026

Residents still have the chance to join a series of free lantern-making workshops ahead of the first Manston Park Lantern Parade, which will take place on Sunday 22nd February after sunset.

The community sessions, held at Pendas Community Centre on Penda’s Way (LS15 8LE), offer people the opportunity to create their own LED lanterns for the event. A small number of places remain, and organisers are encouraging anyone interested to get in touch while spaces are available. To book a workshop place or request more information, residents can email CrossgatesLanterns@gmail.com.

Workshops run from 2pm to 4pm on the following dates:

  • Sunday 11 January
  • Saturday 24 January
  • Sunday 1 February (now full)
  • Sunday 8 February
  • Sunday 15 February

Sessions are open to all ages, though children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Materials are provided free of charge.

Alongside the workshops, organisers are appealing for local volunteers to support the parade on 22nd February. Help is needed with transporting two gazebos, around 20 community chairs, and the finished lanterns from Penda’s Way to the Barnbow pub. Volunteers are also required to assist with setting up the gazebos and to act as marshals along the parade route.

Anyone able to help with these roles is asked to contact Helen Lucy via the same email address: CrossgatesLanterns@gmail.com.

Join our mailing list

* indicates required

Support independent community journalism!

East Side Story covers the people, places and stories in Leeds that are too often overlooked. While national headlines chase conflict and clickbait, we focus on real communities and the issues shaping daily life in East Leeds.

Divisive content, AI noise and online rumours spread faster than ever. At the same time, many mainstream outlets are stretched and rarely spotlight the community organisations and local champions who deserve recognition.

East Side Story was created to change that. We answer only to our readers. We have no corporate owners or billionaire funders. Our journalists report freely, ask difficult questions and hold power to account.

Your support helps us keep this work going. Monthly contributions make the biggest impact because they allow us to invest in deeper reporting and fearless local journalism.

Supporters also receive exclusive updates, behind the scenes insights and other benefits as a thank you for keeping independent journalism alive.

Become a supporter today:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

Celebrate Burns Night on the East Side

Next Story

Plans Revealed for New Footbridge Linking Whinmoor to Cross Gates Station

Latest from Community