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Son et Lumière Remembrance Parade

Weather notice

We are monitoring the weather forecast.

At present, the parade will take place as planned.

If the weather is particularly inclement, we may opt to move the readings on The Leas into the Church.

Please check this page on the day before you set out.

For full details of this year’s event, please click here.

Folkestone and its surrounding district played an important part in the defence of Kent, and residents are keen to remember those who gave their lives to save many others. Events such as the Shorncliffe Trust’s Light in the Darkest Hour and the University of Kent’s Walking With Ghosts have been hugely successful. Unfortunately, neither event could be held in 2024, so the New Folkestone Society developed a new community event that builds upon them, to become part of the annual calendar.

2024

Poster for 'Son et Lumière Remembrance Parade'

Despite the rain, the inaugural event in 2024 saw around 300 people turn up in support. Many found the event provided a fresh connection and reflection, in contrast to the more formal Remembrance Sunday commemorations that take place across the country.

2025

Poster for Son et Lumiere Remembrance Parade

Our 2025 parade took place on 8 November. We were blessed with perfect weather and an increased number of attendees. At the Leas Bandstand, poetry was read to the whole crowd from the bandstand itself one poem at a time, unlike the clusters of readings in 2024. A slideshow of historical photographs was also displayed during the recitals. Music at the Harbour Arm was provided by the U3A Swing Band, who had been entertaining those unable to join the parade until the procession arrived.

2026

A poster for the New Folkestone Society's Son et Lumière Remembrance Parade 2026. The poster largely consists of a photograph of people marching in the dark holding lanterns in silhouette on a previous year's parade. It is in the Society's brand colours - yellow and white text on a dark blue background. It features a strip with the logos of the partners who have helped put the event together, including Folkestone Town Council, the Parish Church of St Mary & St Eanswythe, Shorncliffe Trust, Shepway Pastors, Folkestone Music Town and One Folkestone.

Our 2026 event is due to take place on 7 November. Visit the Son et Lumière Remembrance Parade 2026 page for more details.

Comments on previous events

“A clever format that really worked.”

“Well organised and thought-provoking, especially the readings.”

“Very moving walking in the soldiers’ footprints to a drummer.”

“I thank you all, we visit Folkestone every year for remembrance from Yorkshire as my grandfather and his brothers left from the harbour, we stumbled upon this and really appreciate what you have done.”

“We are visiting from Ireland, saw the parade and just had to join in.”

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