Ever gazed up at the night sky and wondered what stories it tells? Lantern light festivals across the world bring those celestial tales to life—each glowing lantern symbolizing a unique cultural narrative filled with hope, dreams, and shared traditions.
If you've ever dreamed of witnessing a sky full of lanterns like in Tangled, you're in for a magical ride. These festivals go far beyond visual spectacle—they connect communities, celebrate heritage, and kindle a collective spirit of renewal.
Planning to attend one of these awe-inspiring events but concerned about the costs? You might consider a personal loan to help turn your lantern-lit dream into reality.
Let’s journey through 14 of the most enchanting lantern festivals around the globe—each one guaranteed to leave you mesmerized:
# Pingxi Lantern Festival – TaiwanLanterns here symbolize hopes taking flight. As participants release them into the sky, they send wishes for prosperity, unity, and good fortune—each one a message to the heavens.
When: 15th day of the Lunar New Year (usually February)
# Diwali – IndiaKnown as the Festival of Lights, Diwali’s diyas represent the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Lit to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, they also reflect familial warmth and the joy of giving.
When: October–November (based on the lunar calendar)
# Yi Peng Lantern Festival – ThailandThis stunning sky lantern release is a symbolic act of letting go of past burdens and embracing new blessings. It creates a soul-stirring atmosphere of hope and positivity.
When: November, during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month
# Seoul Lantern Festival – South KoreaHeld along the scenic Cheonggyecheon Stream, this festival showcases Korea’s folklore and history through intricate lantern displays that reflect unity, tradition, and artistic pride.
When: November
# Loy Krathong – ThailandA serene celebration of gratitude toward water, participants release lanterns and floating krathongs as a symbolic cleansing of negativity and invitation for renewal.
When: November, during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month
# Gion Matsuri – JapanIn Kyoto, this grand festival uses lanterns to ward off evil and bring blessings. The exquisite designs represent purification, protection, and the rich spiritual heritage of Japan.
When: July, with major lantern displays during the Yoiyama evenings
# Lantern Festival – ChinaMarking the end of Chinese New Year, this celebration bursts with joy and optimism. Lanterns adorned with dragons, flowers, and symbols of good luck fill the skies and streets.
When: February (15th day of the first lunar month)
# Rise Lantern Festival – Las Vegas, USASet in the Mojave Desert, this festival invites participants to write wishes on lanterns before releasing them into the night sky—a breathtaking expression of shared hopes.
When: October
# Hoi An Lantern Festival – VietnamThis monthly event in Hoi An glows with traditional charm. Colorful lanterns light up the streets and float down the Thu Bon River, offering a tranquil, candlelit spectacle.
When: Every full moon night
# Marine Day Lantern Festival – Tokyo, JapanHonoring Japan’s deep connection to the sea, thousands of lanterns line Tokyo’s beaches. Visitors enjoy live music, ocean-themed displays, and delectable seafood.
When: Third Monday of July (Marine Day holiday)
# Mid-Autumn Festival – Across AsiaAlso called the Moon Festival, it celebrates family reunions and the harvest. Lanterns, often moon-shaped, symbolize unity and the beauty of coming together.
When: September or October, on the full moon night
# Festival of Lights – Lyon, FranceThis dazzling event transforms Lyon with light installations as an expression of gratitude to the Virgin Mary. The city turns into a glowing canvas of creativity and devotion.
When: Early December
# Taunggyi Tazaungdaing Festival – MyanmarThis vibrant celebration features hot air balloon competitions and ornate lanterns, showcasing Myanmar’s cultural pride and festive spirit in an unforgettable way.
When: November
# St. John’s Night – PolandKnown locally as Noc Kupaly, this midsummer celebration blends ancient rituals with modern festivity. Lanterns sent into the sky carry wishes for love, abundance, and joy.
When: June 21–24, during the summer solstice