Public Lantern Making Workshop - Dover Winter Lantern Festival

Every year, hundreds of people join the Dover's Winter Lantern Festival procession with glowing star lanterns created in one of our free workshops. 

The workshops are all free and open to everyone, but spaces are limited so please book before you arrive to avoid disappointment.

What is Dover's Winter Lantern Festival?

Since it began in 2021, Dover’s Winter Lantern Festival has become a cherished local tradition – bringing light, warmth, and creativity to the darkest time of year. Over the past five years, this magical event has inspired and uplifted the community through workshops, parades, and creative celebrations.

The Dover Winter Lantern Festival, organised by Future Foundry and Dover Town Council, will return in December 2026 and promises to be the most spectacular yet!

What You Need To Know

All ages welcome, but please see terms for more specific age restrictions.

Terms & Conditions

• All young people must be accompanied by an adult
• Children under 10 years old must have one-to-one help from an adult in your party
• Children under 5 are welcome, but the workshop is not suitable for them - please ask a member of staff for a pre-made lantern if necessary.
• Please wear clothes you don't mind getting messy!
• Your lantern will stay with Future Foundry after the workshop, you will be contacted by a member of the team with details about how to collect your lantern on the day of the procession.
• Our space is inclusive and a safe space for everyone. Hate, discrimination and any form of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated..
• Please email office@futurefoundry.org.uk with information about any accessibility needs.
• You must arrive for the start of the workshop. Late arrivals may have to wait for a suitable time for staff to re-start the workshop or may be turned away.