Altrincham's much-loved Lantern Parade and Nativity Journey is returning to the town centre this Christmas.
The free, family-friendly event, organised by Altrincham BID in partnership with St George's Church and Altrincham Garrick Playhouse, will take place on Saturday 13th December.
The town-wide event brings the Nativity story to life in a truly magical and interactive way for all the family, with music, storytelling and a lantern parade.
Here's everything you need to know for the 2025 event:
Start the Journey and Collect Trail Cards
From 12 noon, families can collect Nativity Trail Cards from Stamford Square (WA14 1SG) to begin their festive adventure. Follow the trail through Altrincham, meet the Nativity characters in locations across the town, and collect a “Stamp” at each stop. Once all stamps are collected, return to Stamford Square to claim a special Christmas treat.
Meet the Nativity Characters
The Nativity story unfolds across Altrincham, with characters ready to greet visitors and share their stories:
- Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus and their Donkey – Stamford Square (WA14 1SG)
- The Shepherds and their Sheep – Bounceback Food Community Kitchen, 1 Central Way (WA14 1SB)
- The Three Kings – Altrincham Interchange, Stamford New Road (WA14 1EN)
- The Inn Keeper and his Wife – The Cheshire Tap, King’s Court, Railway Street (WA14 2RD)
- Angel Gabriel and the Star – Nell’s Pizza, 2 George Street (WA14 1SG)
- King Herod – OYEZ Arts, Altrincham Town Hall (WA14 1PF)
Stage Performances in Stamford Square
Enjoy a full afternoon of live festive performances on the stage in Stamford Square.
Festivities begin at 12 noon with the Altrincham Garrick Show Choir, followed by a back-to-back programme of performances by school and community choirs.
Community Lantern Workshops
Head to OYEZ Arts at Altrincham Town Hall on the day to make your own lantern and join the parade alongside pupils from local primary schools including Altrincham CofE, Cloverlea, Oldfield Brow and Stamford Park.
The workshops are at 12-1pm and 2-3pm and can be booked in advance on Eventbrite.co.uk.
Lantern Parade and Live Nativity Play
At 4pm, the Lantern Parade will gather in Goose Green, featuring the full Nativity cast (including the donkey), Cardwell Theatre School’s host of angels, large lantern puppets, Sale District Scout and Guide Band, and school groups with their lanterns. Goose Green businesses will serve festive refreshments, whilst students from the Aura Music Academy will lead the carol singing.
The parade will set-off at 4.45pm and there are fantastic vantage points all along the route:
- Denmark Street
- Moss Lane
- Stamford New Road
- Regent Road
- Market Street
- Shaw’s Road
- Stamford Quarter
It will arrive in Stamford Square for the grand finale – a Live Nativity Performance starting at 5.30pm.
The Nativity performance will be narrated by Reverend Claire Corley from St George’s Church, with actors taking part from the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse.
Accompanied by the Sale District Scout and Guide Band, the audience will also be invited to sing along to traditional carols.
Mandy White, Altrincham BID Director, said: “This event truly captures the spirit of Christmas, bringing families and the community together in a creative, heart-warming way.
"The Nativity Journey encourages everyone to explore Altrincham, enjoy the town’s festive atmosphere, and celebrate the timeless story of Christmas. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another magical year.”
Reverend Claire Corley of St George’s Church added: “We’re delighted to partner once again with Altrincham BID and the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse. The Nativity Journey is a beautiful reminder of the hope and joy that Christmas brings, and it’s wonderful to share that message with our community.”
