Australia to shine with the arrival of the Water Lantern Festival

The Water Lantern Festival attracts thousands of people across the U.S. each year, and now it’s coming to Australia.

If you’ve seen the movie Tangled, you’ll be familiar with the whimsical scene in which Rapunzel releases floating lanterns into the sky, symbolising her deep hope and dream of seeing the lights up close. The Water Lantern Festival might just be the next best thing with participants having the opportunity to release lanterns into the water, carrying their hopes, dreams, or personal messages. 

Rivers will glow in a visually stunning display. (Image: Water Lantern Festival)

Inspired by traditional lantern festivals in China, Vietnam, and Thailand, The Water Lantern Festival aims to help people create lasting memories with their loved ones in a peaceful, visually stunning setting. Upon arrival, participants will receive a lantern and a marker or pen to personalise and decorate it. The lanterns will then be lit and released across a body of water, allowing everyone to symbolically let go of their wishes, thoughts, or reflections. The striking sight that follows is a sea of lanterns floating gracefully in the dark, creating a mesmerising and peaceful atmosphere. This family-friendly event will also include activities, food trucks, music and giveaways. 

Participants can symbolically let go of their wishes, thoughts, or reflections. (Image: Water Lantern Festival)

Each adult ticket provides entry into the festival area and comes with a floating lantern, commemorative drawstring bag, LED light, marker, conversation cards, playing cards, and wristband. The lanterns are made from sustainable materials, with a rice paper cover and a wooden lantern base, LED lights are recycled where possible, and event organisers have ensured no waste will be left behind in the water.

The Water Lantern Festival will make its tour around Australia from March:

Sydney: March 8th, 9th

Newcastle: April 26th

Adelaide: May 2nd

Gold Coast: May 10th

Brisbane: May 24th, 25th

Melbourne: May 30th, 31st, June 1st

For ticket info, head to waterlanternfestival.com