The borough’s hugely popular Guy Fawkes Lantern Parade returns this year with lots more free family fun and an award-winning laser lightshow to brighten up the winter night.

The vibrantly lit procession, held in partnership between Barking and Dagenham Council and Creative Barking and Dagenham, takes place through the borough’s streets on Sunday, 6 November, starting at Eastbury Manor House and ending at Barking Abbey Ruins.  

A giant Guy Fawkes will lead the way along with illuminated, colourful lanterns in tow. The parade is free to join, and participants are encouraged to get creative and bring their own lanterns, as well as don bright clothing, glowing accessories and face paint. 

Once the parade is over, the fun continues with a host of free family-friendly entertainment including live music performances, an incredible fire show by Cirque Bijou and the award-winning laser lightshow by BAFTA winning artist Seb Lee-Delisle. 

Councillor Darren Rodwell, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, said: “The gunpowder plot is one of the most important events in our country’s history and our colourful lantern parade event is a fantastic opportunity for people to come together to mark the annual spectacle at one of our most popular events.

“As local folklores go, four centuries ago Guy Fawkes stayed at Eastbury Manor House in the build up to the infamous plot, which is why the parade beginning there is so poignant.”

Guy Fawkes was part of a group of infamous plotters whose plan to blow up Parliament on 5 November 1605 was foiled. His failed attempt is remembered each year as Bonfire Night.

Entertainment will begin at Abbey Green from 4pm with the parade starting at 4.30pm. The procession should take around 45 minutes to complete and a rolling road closure will be in place.

There are a number of free creative workshops taking place where residents can design their own magical lanterns or help decorate the giant Guy Fawkes that will appear in the parade.

For more details – including to book a place in the procession – visit www.lbbd.gov.uk/lanternparade