How Rivers of Light began
Rivers of Light began in 2023 when Newmarket Community Arts teamed up with Newmarket Community Nature Reserve and ecologist Kevin Hand to organise a free lantern parade for the community of Newmarket to celebrate our rare and ancient chalk streams.
River of Light Aims
The aim of Rivers of Light is to bring communities together, connect with our local landscape and educate and raise awareness about how to protect and improve the chalk streams that run through our town. This year we are working with the newly formed Newmarket Chalk Stream Trust.
How the event has grown
The first year of Rivers of Light saw over 200 people attend. 2024 saw over 500 people attend. Both events included entertainment from local groups including Newmarket School of Dance, Newmarket Community Choir, New Samba and Slack Magirdle Morris Dancers. Local open mic performers also provided musical entertainment at Studlands Social Club and the Newmarket Lions provided refreshments. 2024 also saw the addition of illuminations along the Studlands Park Stretch of the stream to wow participants.
Why we are asking for donations
We want February 22nd 2025 to be even more amazing !
The Rivers of Light committee rely on donations to fund this event. It has become a welcome fixture in the Newmarket calendar to brighten up the winter months. We need your donations to allow Rivers of Light 2025 to take place on Saturday 22nd February. All donations will go towards lighting the stream and the cost of materials and workshops to make illuminations that can be carried along the route.
Thank you !