In pictures: ‘You are all absolute legends’ – Lewes’ Moving On parade 2026

Organised by charity Patina – which stands for Parents and Teachers in the Arts – the procession wound through central Lewes finishing with celebrations, music and performances. Its main sponsors this year were the Enjoolata Foundation, Lewes Town Council and Tapestry.

This year’s Moving On theme was “Absolute Legends”, and was inspired by myths and legends from both the local area and from around the world. Each school represented a different myth or legend in the parade. This year’s parade also featured a massive Medusa designed by artist Abbie Stanton, with snakes decorated by each of the primary schools.

The parade is traditionally held on the first Friday in July. Over the school year, artists collaborate with children to design and create intricate costumes and giant puppets using materials like willow and tissue paper.

Now in its 24th year, from an initial six schools there are now 15 schools involved. The event culminates in a community party at the Paddock Park.

This year presenter and professional storyteller Jon Mason toured the schools, telling legendary stories of adventure, courage and identity to inspire the children and their costumes.

Patina has also created a Book of Legends written and illustrated by the children, to discover who the children see as the legends in their own lives at this critical transitional stage between primary and secondary school. Most frequently mentioned in the book as total legends are parents and siblings.

Patina Director Caroline Croft said: “Moving On is a unique rite of passage, a fantastic way to connect and celebrate all our young people and an important opportunity for the children to be creative and really enjoy themselves. It is to Lewes’ real credit that the streets are given over to young people and that the community comes out to show their support to each and every child. We can’t thank everyone enough for all their support and kindness in helping us make Moving On such a special experience for the children and their families.”

Mayor of Lewes, Cllr Adrian Ross, said Patina is one of his favourite events in Lewes, particularly when his own children took part. He sadly had to miss it this year as he was due to visit Lewes' twin town in Germany.

Cllr Ross said: "I want to congratulate you all on finishing your primary school and moving onto secondary school. You are all legends."