Park in the Dark

Black Diamond FM and Midlothian Science Festival were out and about at Dalkeith Kings Park for Park in the Dark.

Hosting the International Year of Light Baton as part of its national Tour and with lots of activities on offer, Park in the Dark had plenty to entertain all the family.

The hula hooping demonstration and activities proved very popular. With younger family members keen to get involved and practice their skills.

A Holographic Light Exhibition in St Davids Church provided an opportunity to learn more about light. Whilst a Lantern Workshop in the Pavillion provided the opportunity to accessorise or make a lantern for the parade.

Just after 6pm two members of the local Scout group carried the Year of Light Baton from St Davids Church to the Park. Presenting it to Philip Wark Chairman of the Midlothian Science Festival, who gave a brief speech about the torch. Made locally it helps symbolise the strong links between science and Midlothian. Using technology that can trace its roots back to Scottish Physicist James Maxwell Clerk.  

The excitement started building as the time drew closer to the main event of the evening, the lantern parade. With sparkling lights flickering on all over the park. There was time for a few last minute lantern adjustments then the parade was off. Lead by Kim and Rachel with a display of LED Hula Hoop and Poi circus skills.A sea of bobbing lanterns made their way around Dalkeith Park accompanied by well-known light orientated tunes selected by Black Diamond FM. With over 200 people both young and old taking part in this family friendly activity. With prizes for the best children’s lanterns being awarded by Philip Wark.

A rousing outdoors Ceilidh lead by the Science Ceilidh band enhanced the festive atmosphere bringing Park in the Dark 2015 to a close.