After two years of Candles on the Beach organised by Lewis-Manning Hospice Care to reflect, celebrate and remember loved ones, the magical event is returning to Swanage in Dorset but this time it will be at a new location.
Now in its third year, it’s being billed as Candles by the Sea with the poignant event taking place at Swanage Bandstand on the Recreation Ground from 5.30 pm to 7 pm on Saturday 26th October 2024.
Swanage Bandstand will host Candles by the Sea in 2024
More intimate and community-focused
Previously held on Swanage Beach, the organisers say this change of venue promises to bring a more intimate and community-focused atmosphere – and it will still be within sight and sound of the sea.
Those attending can dedicate a message on a candle that will be displayed around the bandstand, to create a sparkling display.
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care events fundraiser Anna DuRose said:
“We are delighted to bring our popular Candles event back to Swanage for the third time running.
“This year, we are relocating to Swanage Bandstand, where we hope to create an even more intimate feeling of community spirit and provide a safe space for those wishing to celebrate and remember their loved ones.
“We hope the wonderful Purbeck community will come along to support their local hospice charity at this celebratory and reflective event.”
The first Candles on the Beach in 2022 was a heart warming success on a cold December evening
Supporting bereavement and family support services
To add to the evening there will be musical performances by The Wareham Town Band and The Dorset Police Male Voice Choir to generate a reflective and moving ambiance, with the aim of enhancing the sense of togetherness and support.
The candles are made from recyclable materials and will be safely placed so as not to affect wildlife or cause damage in the area.
They will all be collected at the end of the evening by volunteers to ensure there is no litter and to be reused for subsequent years.
A suggested donation of £6 per candle will support Lewis-Manning’s bereavement and family support services, allowing the hospice to continue providing care and support to those in the community.
Musicians will perform again at the candlelit event
“Evening of light, music, and shared remembrance”
Anna added:
“We’d like to acknowledge our sponsors James Smith Funeral Directors and give special thanks to Wareham Town Band and The Dorset Police Male Voice Choir for supporting this event.
“Please join us at Swanage Bandstand for an evening of light, music, and shared remembrance as we come together as a community.”
Following the success of the evening in 2022, the event was bigger and better on Swanage Beach in 2023
Candles in the Community 2024
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care will also host Candles on the Lake in Poole Park on Saturday 19th October 2024 and Candles on the Green at Wimborne Minster on Saturday 16th November 2024.
- Candles on the Lake – The Ark, Poole Park, Saturday 19th October
- Candles by the Sea – Swanage Bandstand, Saturday 26th October
- Candles on the Green – Wimborne Minster, Saturday 16th November
Further information
- Anyone wishing to take part may purchase a candle on the evening, although it’s easier to preorder a candle in advance via the Lewis-Manning website
