Words: Mark Perkins
Images: @philthorns_photography
Something wonderful happened in the trees and woodlands of Parkwood Springs recently. As the sun began to set, a lantern procession slowly made its way from the car park to the viewing point, with its spectacular views over the north of Sheffield. The parade followed the irresistible drumming rhythms and sounds of the wonderful Sheffield Samba Band, who themselves were decked out in all manner of lights, costumes and general pinkness.
For a couple of hours the band played; lanterns were held aloft as they made their way up through the trees and narrow pathways until they returned to the lower field. It truly was a sight to behold: drummers and lanterns emerged slowly and almost magically from the trees into the now-darkened city park. As they gathered in the field below, and the Samba Band played one last tune, the final part of the evening’s entertainment started – an appearance by the Mister Fox dance troupe. Their show tells various stories about the lives and adventures of a group of foxes, all done in full costume, and with only burning torches and fire to illuminate the performance. This was a really spectacular thing to witness, finishing off an immersive celebration of light and fun as we move into the longer, darker nights of winter.
Since 2008 there has been an event at this time of year for families and the local community, journeying through the woods to the viewpoint to admire the views as dusk falls and the lights come on. Initially, it was organised by Sheffield City Council, with fireworks and story-telling. Later it became a lantern procession, organised primarily by the Friends of Parkwood Springs, though still with important support from the council’s Parks and Countryside service as well as local councillors. This event was the first one held since 2019, and the lanterns were made by nearby schools and community groups, with the help of local artists Patrick Amber and Carol Schofield. Other locals just made their own lanterns, or came along dressed up with lights. The Sheffield Samba Band are regulars here, but this year for the first time they were joined by Sheffield Youth Samba Band, who are part of Sheffield Music Hub.
To get involved next year, look out for Friends of Parkwood Springs on Facebook, which is also where you will find links to join the Sheffield Samba Band and the Mister Fox dance troupe.
