FIrelight Lantern Festival
Light up the night at The Firelight Lantern Festival, a cherished Prince Edward County tradition since 2013. Two magical evenings of arts and music unfold at the Crystal Palace in Picton, Ontario.
The Firelight Lantern Festival draws inspiration from traditions of many lantern festivals throughout the world which use light as a symbol to bring people together. As fall ends and the darkness of winter descends upon us it is easy to feel isolated, especially living in a rural community. Our festival acts as a beacon to encourage our residents, both adults and children, to conjure their own light, bringing it into their hearts and homes to sustain them.
IT’s A night to remember
What you can expect throughout the course of the Saturday festival evening, as well as tips for participating!
A gathering at Benson Park with giant puppets, handmade lanterns and performances!
A community procession of music, costumes and puppets departs towards the Crystal Palace through downtown Picton
Art installations, kids crafts, performances and refreshments inside and outside the Crystal Palace
On the Main Stage, live music plays all night for dancing and further fun!
TIPS For ComIng Prepared
Dress up in whatever wild and wonderful costume you wish – especially if it’s illuminated!
Bring a lantern! Our lantern workshops run for weeks before the big event.
Please Donate. The Lantern Parade and outdoor performances are all FREE, however donations are greatly appreciated and help keep this event going! Inside the Crystal Palace is a ticketed event.
Lantern making
Join us in our studio for a lantern-making workshop! Making a lantern is fun and creative, and is suitable for most ages and skill levels, although younger ones will need assistance. Your lantern can be as simple or as complex as you wish, but it’s best to budget at least a few hours’ time to make one. Keep an eye out for dates!
Can’t make it to a workshop? Maybe you’re coming from out of town? We’ve made some tutorials so you can make a lantern at home with readily-available materials.