A lantern parade held in remembrance of Penzance’s most famous son is set to light up the town’s night sky. 

The Humphry Davy Lantern Parade will be staged on Saturday, December 16, at 5pm. 

 The theme this year is “A Cornish Christmas” which reflects the community’s appreciation for its Cornish heritage whilst shining the theme through its famous son’s Cornish invention, ‘The Davy Lamp.’ 

Pupils from Humphry Davy School will be accompanied by the mayor and local musicians in the procession. 

The parade will consist of an array of homemade lanterns, created by local school children with help from local artists, as well as lanterns created by community workshops hosted by the Jubilee Pool and the Big Dance Company.  

The event will commence at the top of Causewayhead, continue down and back up Market Jew Street and pause at the statue of Sir Humphry Davy, outside Market House, where the mayor will make a short address. 

The parade then continues down Chapel Street to end at approximately 6pm outside Chapel Street Methodist Church where people can warm up with the Turk’s Head’s mulled wine and chips.  

The Big Dance Company, Penzance Morris and Bash Street Theatre will be performing at the event.  Funding for the festivities has been given by Penzance Business Improvement District. 

Sarah Shaw, chair of Penzance BID, said: “We feel it is only right that Penzance celebrates one of its most famous resident’s birthdays by utilising some of the amazing creativity brought to us through the Penzance community and in particularly our schools.  

“For us it heralds the start of the Christmas celebrations around the town.  Keep an eye out for the giant Humphry Davy lantern that Penzance BID commissioned especially for this event!  

“Don’t forget to browse the festive market in St John’s Hall, open from 10am until 5pm and enjoy the Christmas entertainments and music in the town throughout the day.  

“All are invited to take part to share, appreciate and love our community.” 

• Anyone who can spare a couple of hours to assist with the parade can email [email protected]