Dive Into a Prehistoric Adventure: Night of the Basilosaurus Comes to Bexleyheath
Get ready for an extraordinary spectacle that will transform Bexleyheath Broadway into an illuminated deep-sea wonderland! On Saturday 31st January, our community will come together for a truly unique event – the Night of the Basilosaurus.
This isn't just any parade. This is a chance to step back in time and celebrate the magnificent creatures that once ruled our ancient oceans, all whilst bringing our community together in a dazzling display of creativity and light.
Meet the Star: The Basilosaurus
The centrepiece of this unforgettable evening will be a breathtaking, large-scale lantern puppet of a Basilosaurus – an extinct prehistoric whale that swam in Earth's oceans millions of years ago. This massive, illuminated sculptural creation promises to be a sight to behold as it glides through the Broadway, bringing this ancient marine giant back to life in the most spectacular way imaginable.
Imagine the scene: a glowing prehistoric whale, dozens of metres long, moving gracefully through the heart of Bexleyheath, accompanied by a shimmering shoal of handmade sea creature lanterns created by our local community. It's going to be magical!
A Rhythmic Celebration
What's a parade without music? The incredibly talented drummers from Taru Arts will be joining the procession, providing an energetic, rhythmic beat that will pulse through the Broadway. Their drumming will add an infectious energy to the event, keeping spirits high and feet moving as our glowing marine display makes its way through the town centre.
Be Part of the Magic – Create Your Own Sea Creature!
Here's where you come in! We want this parade to be a true community celebration, and that means we need YOU to join us.
Residents of all ages are warmly invited to attend our free prehistoric-themed lantern-making craft workshops, where you can create your very own illuminated sea creature to carry in the parade. Whether you fancy making a glowing jellyfish, a luminous prehistoric fish, or your own interpretation of an ancient marine creature, our workshops will provide everything you need to bring your vision to life.
These aren't just craft sessions – they're opportunities to meet your neighbours, unleash your creativity, and become an integral part of something truly special. No artistic experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and imagination!
Book your place at our free lantern-making workshops here: https://fb.me/e/aA7Lr9u3u
All of these handmade lanterns will come together on the night to create a stunning illuminated procession, lighting up Bexleyheath Broadway with the collective creativity of our community. Your creation will be part of this spectacular display!
What to Expect on the Night
As the sun sets on Saturday 31st January, Bexleyheath Broadway will be transformed into a prehistoric ocean. The giant Basilosaurus will lead a procession of glowing sea creatures – each one lovingly crafted by local residents – through the heart of our town centre. The drumming from Taru Arts will create an atmospheric soundscape, whilst the illuminated lanterns cast enchanting shadows and light across the Broadway.
This is an event for everyone – families, friends, neighbours, and visitors alike. Whether you're carrying your own handmade lantern or simply coming along to watch and soak up the atmosphere, you're guaranteed an evening to remember.
Save the Date and Stay Tuned
Mark Saturday 31st January firmly in your diary. This is one event you won't want to miss!
We'll be confirming the exact route and specific timings very soon, so keep an eye on our social media channels and website for updates. Make sure you're following us so you don't miss any announcements.
A Community Celebration
The Night of the Basilosaurus is more than just a parade – it's a celebration of our community's creativity, spirit, and ability to come together for something extraordinary. It's about creating memories, strengthening community bonds, and showing what makes Bexleyheath such a special place to live.
This wonderful event is brought to you by Enjoy Bexleyheath in partnership with Bow Arts and supported by Arts Council England. It's through collaboration like this that we're able to create these magical moments for our community.
Don't Miss Out!
So, what are you waiting for? Book your place at one of our free lantern-making workshops and start planning your prehistoric sea creature. Whether you're 8 or 80, there's a place for you in this parade.
Let's make Saturday 31st January a night to remember – a night when Bexleyheath Broadway becomes home to an ancient ocean, lit by the creativity and community spirit that makes our town shine.
See you at the workshops, and we'll see you on the Broadway for the Night of the Basilosaurus!
For workshop bookings and the latest updates on the parade route and timings, visit the link above and follow our social media channels.
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