Light Up Thames is returning to Rhodes Park on October 31 after a successful debut in 2025.
The family-friendly event, featuring entertainment, food vendors, market stalls, family activities, and a fireworks finale, is once again being put on by Moanataiari School.
“It’s the same format, but bigger – we’re just looking for a really good night,” school Parents and Teachers Association member Julie White said.
“We were really happy with [last year] and it was really great just to put on a community event.
“And that’s what we’re hoping for again this year.”
Last year the event attracted an estimated 3680 attendees from across the wider Thames-Coromandel area.
“The overwhelming support and positive feedback highlighted just how important events like this are in bringing people together and creating opportunities for local families to connect and celebrate.”
School principal David Brock said the school was very appreciative of the businesses and organisations which helped make the event possible last year.
“The fireworks themselves – it’s a professional pyrotechnics company. There is a reasonable amount of expense to have the display,” he said.
“Without sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to do this.”
Funds raised from the event will go towards projects and opportunities to benefit the students of Moanataiari School.
DETAILS: Light Up Thames 2026, October 31 from 5pm at Rhodes Park, Thames. Rain date November 7. Tickets are available at the gate: $10 adults, $5 children, $25 family pass (two adults and two children), and children under two are free. For details on sponsorship or becoming a vendor, contact the Moanataiari School office on 07 868 6504.
