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Reading Recreation Commission Lantern Parade to Light Up City Park Bandshell

Jul 31, 2017 • by Reading Recreation Commission
Reading Recreation Commission

Lantern Parade is a tradition since the 1930’s

Reading, PA…Reading Recreation Commission will hold its fifth annual Lantern Parade on Thursday, August 3, 2017 from 6:30-8:30 pm at the City Park Bandshell, Reading.  Prior to the Parade, which begins as the sun sets, a carnival will be held at City Park Playground.  Each playground designed and created carnival games.  The public is invited to attend both events.

The Lantern Parade, a City of Reading Recreation program since the 1930’s, marks the end of the summer playground season.  In the past, the lanterns were constructed from empty cardboard ice cream containers that were decorated by each playground member and were lit by a small candle. 

Today’s lanterns are crafted from various materials including empty 2 liter bottles, empty milk jugs, woven basketry and paper.  They are decorated by each playground member.  In addition, each playground created and designed a banner with the 2017 theme of multiculturalism. 3rd & Spruce Recreation Center won this year’s honor as Best Banner, and youth members there were given a Rita’s Italian Ice party to celebrate the award.   

About Reading Recreation Commission

The Reading Recreation Commission, a non-profit organization, is a community partnership between the City of Reading and Reading School District that provides quality programs and facilities to the residents of Reading. We provide neighborhood-based recreation, sports and learning opportunities for all ages – with an emphasis on affordable programs for children – at schools, parks, playgrounds, and at our two recreation centers located at 3rd & Spruce Sts. and 11th & Pike Sts.

Programs include youth and adult instructional sports programs and leagues (including the COR Tennis program), fitness classes, summer playgrounds, club activities, cultural arts programs, leadership programs, nutrition classes, after school care, and community special events. Our recreation services bring people together and make our community stronger.  Our staff serve as mentors to youth and provide them with opportunities to learn, feel cared for, and become engaged in sports and many other activities.  Positive recreation experiences help to build stronger communities and improve people’s lives.

Our mission: To provide quality recreation programs and facilities for the residents of Reading with a primary focus on youth programs.

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