For the event, local schoolchildren make and carry lanterns in a long and very impressive procession. These lanterns are made by using willow (also called withy), which is a bendy wood that can be taped together to form many shapes. The procession also includes music from a wide variety of community bands, from Cornish traditional music to Samba. During the evening, Truro's Christmas lights are officially switched on.
For many people, the highlight of the procession is the large and beautiful illuminated sculptures made by local artists. These follow a different theme each year, and some are huge and extraordinary. In the past these images have included a rhino, a giraffe, a squid, the kings and queens of England and local historical figures such as Joseph Emidy.
