Lights, lanterns, action! Lismore's bright longest night

Come June 23, thousands of lanterns will illuminate the CBD during a march through the town centre to Lismore Regional Gallery's The Quad where a large bonfire will be lit.

The procession will feature hundreds of large lanterns, all carried by hand.

The spectacular creations range from puppets to huge owls to pink witches and cauldrons, all with their own stories to tell. Some of the most popular lanterns will remain on show after the parade for revellers to get a closer look.

This year's theme is Wonderland and is tipped to be a cross between an enchanted fairytale paradise and a colourful fantasy dreamland.

"We will transform the space into a magical wonderland full of light projections, delightful creatures and luminous garden surprises that will amaze and inspire," said the parade's creative director Jyllie Jackson.

"There will be fire and magic and light and music in the streets. We are very excited."

Jyllie was tight-lipped on this year's finale, though she promised a "big surprise". She said this year would be very different because the usual venue was being refurbished.

The move also means the usual tickets can't be sold, with organisers encouraging donations instead.

All the fun starts at noon with markets in Carrington Street and The Quad before the parade starts at 5.30pm.

Make a weekend of it and check out the Lismore Friendship Festival - Piazza in the Park on June 24.

All things Italian will be celebrated from 10am in Spinks Park to mark the town's friendship with Conegliano and Vittorio Veneto in Italy.

Visitors can indulge in food and wine, dress up in the colours of the Italian flag, or learn the Tarantella or a few words in Italian.

FOR more on what to do in Lismore - heart of the Northern Rivers - www.visitlismore.com.au