Be part of something extraordinary!
Help us bring Exeter’s Sidwell Street to life with music, lanterns, and giant puppets in a brand-new annual celebration: The Sidwell Street Spring Parade!
Burn the Curtain is on a mission to create an event that every Exonian can be proud of. We’re inviting YOU to help us craft a vibrant, inclusive street parade that celebrates the rich cultural diversity, history, and creativity of our city.
Why we need your support
In autumn 2023, we collaborated with St Sidwell’s Centre and InExeter to create a magical street parade featuring a 4.3m tall puppet of St Sidwella, surrounded by a stunning array of lanterns. The event exceeded our expectations, with overwhelming participation from the community and an atmosphere of joy and unity. Many participants asked one question: When’s the next parade?
Now, we want to make the Sidwell Street Spring Parade an annual tradition—but we need your help to make it happen.
What your support will make possible:
- Lantern-Making Workshops: Free creative sessions where Exeter’s community can come together, learn new skills, and make their mark on the parade.
- Giant Puppets & Carnival Art: Breathtaking new carnival pieces to form the heart of the parade, designed to inspire awe and pride.
- Community Events: Spaces for people to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the rich diversity of Sidwell Street.
- A Legacy for Exeter: A parade that brings people together and creates a sense of belonging, year after year.
Why this matters
Sidwell Street is a vibrant area, but it often faces challenges with anti-social behavior and negative perceptions. We believe this parade can change that narrative—highlighting the beauty, culture, and resilience of this incredible community.
This isn’t just an event; it’s a chance to bring people together, break down barriers, and celebrate what makes Exeter so special.
Be part of the magic!
Your contribution will help cover materials, artist fees, and community workshops. Every pound you donate helps us bring this vision to life and ensures the Sidwell Street Spring Parade becomes a cornerstone of Exeter’s cultural calendar.
🎭 Together, we can light up Sidwell Street!
Let’s create something extraordinary, celebrate our city’s diversity, and show the world what Exeter is capable of.
👉 Donate today and join us in making the Sidwell Street Spring Parade a reality.
Thank you for your support! 🌟
Also supported by Devon Community Foundation and Creative Arc