Cromwell’s Light Up Winter event - delivered by the Cromwell & Districts Promotion Group - will return next month (Saturday August 2).

This year’s event will feature two food courts, and entertainment including a roving magician, illuminated performers, live music, glowing fairies, fire dancers, face painting, and the return of Thomas the Train on the Greenway Express. 

“We’re thrilled to bring even more flavour and festivity to Light Up Winter this year,” organiser Anthea Lawrence said. 

“With fantastic food, dazzling decorations, and an amazing community spirit, it’s an evening not to be missed.”

Andrea said attendees should expect some “surprising elements” revealed only on the night.

Cromwell MenzShed members have been crafting props to help transform Anderson Park into a winter wonderland.

“We love getting behind community projects like this,” MenzShed’s Dennis Booth said. 

“It’s a great way to put our hands to good use and be part of something that brings the town together. Plus, we’re having a bit of fun with it too.”

Attendees are encouraged to register for the Light Up Your Hat competition, which has a new corporate category.

Andrea said one of the night’s most anticipated moments is the mass lantern release. 

The lanterns are strictly limited, she said. They are only available online, and must be purchased in advance. 

The biodegradable lanterns will be collected by volunteers the next morning, and passed to Central Wormworx Ltd to be processed into vermicast (a nutrient rich fertiliser) by tiger worms.

Cromwell & Districts Promotion Group chair Caitlin Dykes said Light Up Cromwell continues to grow “while staying true to its local heart”.

“It’s family fun for all ages and generations, and the perfect night out on a cold Central Otago evening. The event has evolved each year, now attracting visitors from near and far. It’s amazing to see it continue to grow.”

The organisers thanked the funders and sponsors. 

Find more information, including lantern purchases and hat registrations, here.

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