Lantern Festival Lights Up Green Lake

Experience the Magic of Lantern Festival Green Lake

Nestled in the heart of Seattle, Green Lake Park transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland every year with the Lantern Festival Green Lake. This enchanting event, organized by the Green Lake Community Council, is a beloved tradition that celebrates the arrival of spring and the Asian Lunar New Year.

many lanterns are floating in the air at night

What is the Lantern Festival Green Lake?

The Lantern Festival Green Lake is a vibrant, family-friendly event that combines art, culture, and community. It's a time for neighbors to come together, light lanterns, and set them afloat on the lake, creating a breathtaking spectacle of light and reflection. The festival also features live performances, food vendors, and interactive art activities.

many different colored lanterns hanging from a tree

When and Where Does It Happen?

The Lantern Festival Green Lake takes place annually in early March, coinciding with the Asian Lunar New Year. The event is held at Green Lake Park, with the main activities centered around the lake. The festival typically runs from 4 PM to 8 PM, with the lantern lighting ceremony starting around dusk.

many lanterns are lit up in the sky near a tree with no leaves on it

What to Expect at the Festival

Lantern Lighting Ceremony: The highlight of the festival is the lantern lighting ceremony. Thousands of handmade lanterns, each one unique and beautiful, are set afloat on the lake, creating a magical scene that must be seen to be believed.
Live Performances: Enjoy a diverse lineup of live performances, including traditional Asian dance, music, and martial arts demonstrations.
Food Vendors: Savor delicious food from local vendors, offering a variety of Asian and American cuisines.
Interactive Art Activities: Get creative with hands-on art activities, such as lantern making workshops and face painting.

How to Participate

many lanterns are lit up in the night sky above some trees and bushes with lights on them

Participating in the Lantern Festival Green Lake is easy and fun. Here's what you need to know:

Activity	Cost
Admission	Free
Lantern Kit	$10 (cash only)
Food and Drinks	Varies by vendor

Lantern kits can be purchased on-site with cash only. They include everything you need to create and light your own lantern. Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and to avoid long lines for lantern kits.

951 reactions · 82 shares | This is the reason for our lantern walks each fall. To be a reminder to see how our own little light shines. To be that spark of light in the world for those around us. To shine bright together, illuminating our shared goodness. Last night, our younger grades lit the path forward with their crafted lanterns. With the rare treat of a glimmer from the northern lights, it was a magical evening and testament of the light within each of us and the capacity of our community! | The Denver Waldorf School | Facebook

The Impact of the Lantern Festival Green Lake

The Lantern Festival Green Lake is more than just a fun event; it's a symbol of community and unity. The festival brings together people from all walks of life, celebrating diversity, creativity, and the arrival of spring. It's a testament to the power of community involvement and the transformative impact of art.

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many people are flying paper lanterns in the night sky with lights on them, and there is no image to provide a caption for

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many lit up paper lanterns are lined up along the water's edge at night

many paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling in an open area with trees and blue sky

lanterns floating in the air over water with birds and flowers on them, at night

a large tree with many lanterns hanging from it's branches at night in front of the sky

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The festival is also a significant fundraiser for the Green Lake Community Council. Proceeds from lantern kit sales and donations go towards supporting community programs and events throughout the year.

Plan Your Visit Today

Mark your calendars and start planning your visit to the Lantern Festival Green Lake today. It's an event you won't want to miss. For the latest updates, including any changes to the event schedule, be sure to follow the Green Lake Lantern Festival Facebook page.