Make your own lantern

Make a paper lantern inspired by Diwali, the Festival of Light, or create a pumpkin lantern inspired by the traditional folklore behind Halloween and the jack-o-lantern.

This autumn at Hanbury Hall we are exploring the changing colours and the changing light throughout the season, exploring links to different cultures and traditions from the past and present.

Light has a strong connection to folklore, and the darkening days were often a source of fear for many people. Candlelight and lanterns were used to keep the darkness at bay. Traditionally during Halloween, turnips were carved out and used as lanterns following the folklore tale of Stingy Jack. This then turned into pumpkin carving gathering the name ‘jack-o-lantern’.

Light and colour also has strong connections with many cultures around the world. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated festivals across South Asia. Homes and streets are decorated with oil lamps, candles, and rangolis. This festival celebrates the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

Celebrate these traditions and festivals with our half-term craft sessions and find out more in an exhibition inside the Hall.

£2 per lantern, pay by card on arrival at visitor reception or by cash in the Long Gallery.

Booking not needed, Normal charges to the venue apply