WATCH: Over 100 lanterns light up Lismore in County Waterford

Now in its third year, the Festival Eve Lantern Parade returns to light up Lismore in County Waterford.

Returning as part of this year’s Towers and Tales Children’s Book Festival, the annual lantern parade will feature over over 100 handmade lanterns.

They were created by school children and will illuminate the path from Millennium Park to Lismore Castle.

Accompanied by carnival drummers and community volunteers, the magical parade will end in a sound and animation display, which will be projected onto the walls of the iconic, landmark castle.

This year’s theme, 'Bláthanna Bealtaine', comes from the old custom of leaving Bealtaine flowers on the door and threshold of homes to welcome Summer.

The chosen theme will explore Irish folklore and traditions through new stories, written by students at Scoil Gharbháin and brought to life through soundscapes, animation, and lantern art.

The procession will begin in Lismore’s, Millennium Park and from there it will travel to the front lawn of Lismore Castle. On the way it will pass through the maze of gardens, guided by community volunteers, Lismore Men’s Shed and accompanied by an ensemble of carnival drummers.

The event takes play on May 2 from 8.45pm.

The event is free for all ages, however, registration is essential.

More information is available at towersandtalesfestival.ie

This year’s Towers and Tales Festival will once again spill out beyond the courtyard of the castle and across Lismore with a programme of family-friendly activities and experiences for all ages.

From interactive trails and signed storytime to vibrant lanterns and storytelling in the forest, Towers and Tales celebrates creativity, play and the joy of stories in many forms.

To view last year's Lantern Parade click here.