Something new is coming to Dorking… and it’s going to shine. 🌟
This February, we’ll be bringing a little warmth and light to the town with Dorking’s very first Festival of Light. ✨
When the nights are still dark and winter feels long, we’re creating an evening that brings people together, with handmade lanterns, a glowing procession through the town centre, and a real sense of community celebration.
At the heart of the Festival of Light is people. Local groups, organisations and residents coming together to make something beautiful, take part in something shared, and light up Dorking at a time of year when connection matters most.
It’s about creativity, kindness and togetherness and we’d love you to join us for our inaugural Festival of Light.
Details
Friday 20th February 5:30 – 7:00pm
5:30pm – Gather outside Dorking Halls from 5:30pm where there will be entertainment, a pizza truck from Monteforte and drinks available from Dorking Halls.
6:15pm approx – In groups we will process along the High Street with lanterns and end up at St Martin’s Church to bring the community together and celebrate the beauty in this time of year.
FAQs
How do I make a lantern?
We will be running a free workshop for families to make wooden lanterns on the afternoon of Friday 20th February between 2 and 5pm at Dorking Halls. Full details here.
If you are a resident or visitor wanting to make a workshop we are running a workshop at Swirl Wine Bar on Tuesday 10th February at 7:30pm. Pre booking required. Click here for details.
We are also running 2 community workshops for businesses and community organisations to come together and create larger willow lanterns. These will run at Pippbrook House on Wednesday 11th February. You will need to book a space on these here.
I can’t make a workshop can I still take part?
If you can’t make a workshop but still want to take part please drop us a line at info@hellodorking.com to be added to the waiting list for a kit. Currently all our kits are allocated but if any become free we can let you know.
We’d like to grab a bite to eat and/or a drink, where can we go?
Monteforte Pizza will have a mobile pizza van outside Dorking Halls before the event to grab their famous pizza, plus Dorking Halls Cafe will be open serving hot and cold drinks and snacks. If you are looking to have a meal or drinks after then take a look at our food and drink directory – you’ll be spoilt for choice.
How can I get there?
We are encouraging local residents to walk into town or take public transport.
I am coming by car where shall I park?
We would suggest parking in one of the car parks near the end of the procession for example St Martin’s Walk or South Side.
If you are planning to come by car please consider car sharing with other members of your group or friends to help the environment and ensure there is parking for all.
Photo Credit: Farnham Craft Town
