Lantern Festival Near Me

This year, Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo is bigger, better and brighter than ever, as you discover a delightful experience with the light and sound lantern festival! In time to immerse you in the festive magic this winter.

From dazzling and captivating light installations to being transported into enchanting lands filled with colour and festivity! Experience flickering fire gardens, larger-than-life pea-lit animal statues and even a GIANT woolly mammoth projection! Wind along paths and through trees as you discover all sorts of wonderful creatures!

They haven’t forgotten about your family favourites either. Experience an interactive adventure with their stunning puppets, including lions, elephants and zebras! Psst…we heard that Father Christmas might make an appearance too…

Plus, animal lovers of all ages know that Chester Zoo is one of the best places in the region to see weird and wonderful wildlife!

There’s also festive fairground rides and mouth-watering marshmallow toasting! Perfect for those chilly nights.

“Our family had a magical time at Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo! With our 10-year-old son in tow, we were captivated by the larger-than-life pea-lit animal statues and the mesmerizing GIANT woolly mammoth projection. But what truly stole the show were the interactive adventures with stunning puppets, especially the lions, elephants, and zebras. It felt like we were part of a real safari! Lanterns and Light is an unforgettable experience for families, and we can’t wait to return!” –

Jules, 39 and Brandon, 40

It’s that time of year again…dark nights are approaching and the nights get a little colder. Stop your search for ‘lantern festivals near me’, because Winter Illuminations at Yorkshire Wildlife Park is back for 2024!

This lantern festival experience is going to be out of this world! So, you better wrap up warm and embark on a journey in the park after dark as you wander through multiple illuminated enchanted realms.

Explore the magic of this dazzling light and lantern festival, with over 2,400 metres of illuminated trails filled with awe-inspiring giant lanterns, including de’lights’ such as Animal Adventures, Under the Sea, Fairytale Kingdoms, plus brand new for 2024 – Around The World in 80 Days.

Needing a little treat? Don’t fret, you can indulge in festive fun with tasty hot food and drinks as you make your way through this walk-around experience!

If you fancy staying a bit longer, you can skip the ride home and make a night of it with a stay at the park-adjacent Hex Wildlife Hotel or make a day of it with day entry to Yorkshire Wildlife Park!

“We had an incredible family night at Winter Illuminations, Yorkshire Wildlife Park with our 7-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter. The highlight for us was the brand new ‘Space Odyssey’ and ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ lantern displays. Walking through these illuminated realms was truly magical and captured the kids’ imaginations. And the tasty hot food and drinks added a delightful touch to the experience. It’s a must-visit for families this winter!”

– Aaron, 38 and Nisha, 35

Celebrate all things illumination in the deep… The Enchanted Forest is set to return better than ever. Be prepared for amazing lantern scenes as you walk through a world like no other.

With dazzling visuals and a choreographed sequence with an original score as you explore the autumn woodland. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience.

Wander past bioluminescent creatures that live in the deep depths of the ocean. Watch as they guide you through the forest as you’re swept by the currents and tides, on a brightly lit journey.

Discover the mysteries of the deep in this magical moment.

“Our sons had a magical time at The Enchanted Forest! Our 3-year-old and 5-year-old were absolutely amazed by the bioluminescent creatures that guided us through the forest. It felt like we were on an underwater adventure. It’s a unique experience that left us all in awe of the mysteries of the deep. The Enchanted Forest truly creates unforgettable moments for families!”

– Chanel, 36 and Samuel, 35

Embrace yourselves as you discover breathtaking lanterns as Edinburgh Castle is transformed this festive season. Why? Because Castle of Light is returning for its 5th year! There will be all-NEW light projections dancing across the castle walls at this outdoor event, immersive illuminations and luminescent light installations all set to dazzle you.

Uncover mysteries, gaze at colourful creations and enjoy a charming night out as you wander through the spectacular after-dark trail!

You’ll also find plenty of tasty treats and drinks to indulge in too!

“Our family had an enchanting evening at Castle of Light: Magic and Mystery in Edinburgh Castle. Our 6-year-old daughter was absolutely spellbound by the light projections on the castle walls. It was like stepping into a fairy tale!”

– Suzie, 35 and Jordan, 32

This December, enjoy a transcendent and enchanting torchlit procession. What’s it for? To shine a light on homelessness…

It’s normally a sell-out event, where 20,000 people will take to the streets, enjoy a carnival atmosphere, fire performers, Pipe Bands and Drummers to commence the celebrations!

“My daughter and I had an unforgettable experience at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Torchlight Procession. It was heartwarming to see 20,000 people come together to shine a light on homelessness. The carnival atmosphere, fire performers, and the powerful presence of live entertainment truly made it a night to remember. Being part of such a meaningful event with my 12-year-old old was a unique and heartwarming experience we’ll cherish forever.”

– Dan, 40 

You may have to wait for this brilliant lantern festival Scotland loves to host…it’ll be coming back in 2025!

Enjoy multiple nights of luminescent joy as you wander through the plethora of light displays and immersive installations from all sorts of brilliant artists! From nature and animals, futuristic figures and UV face painting to more!

We’ll be sure to keep you updated on the deets!

“We had an amazing time at SPECTRA in Aberdeen! Our 7-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son were absolutely transfixed by the immersive light displays and installations. What set SPECTRA apart was the variety of artistry on display, from animals to futuristic displays to fun UV face painting! We can’t wait for SPECTRA to return in 2024!”

– Lauren, 39

This beautiful ‘lantern festival near me’ will be filled with a traditional lantern parade for everyone to be involved in. You will have a chance to see hand-made lanterns, which you can create yourself! This magical experience will get the whole family involved, and you will have a chance to purchase the materials kit to make sure your lantern stands out.

A family-friendly event, letting everyone relax together and appreciate the collection of lanterns. This is a non-profit making organisation, it’s a chance for the whole community to come together and create their magical lanterns by walking a parade!

“We had a fantastic time at the Shepton Mallet Lantern Festival Workshop with our 11-year-old and 9-year-old daughters. What truly set this festival apart was the opportunity to create our own lanterns. The hand-made lanterns were a sight to behold, and being able to craft our own added a special touch. It’s a wonderful family-friendly event that brings the community together, and the chance to walk in the lantern parade was a magical experience we won’t forget!”

– Charlie, 39

Join the city of Leeds in the UK’s largest annual arts and light festival! Watch as Leed’s indoor and outdoor spaces are transformed into a spectacle of light.

On select nights this lantern festival is sure to ‘wow’ you in every way. From giant lantern figures to laser light shows!

It’s a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours as the winter rolls in. Just because the nights get darker, doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors! Light festivals are the fireproof way to illuminate those winter blues.

“Our family had an unforgettable night at Light Night Leeds with our 8-year-old son. The giant lantern figures and laser light shows were really cool! It’s the perfect way to chase away the winter blues and make the most of the darker nights.”

– Priya, 36 and Arjun, 37

For four nights only, take the entire family along for a breathtaking experience like no other. Why?

Because the city of Durham will be transformed into a nocturnal art display! From illuminating iconic buildings in the city to lighting up public spaces.

It’s the perfect event to discover when the nights get a little darker and winter is around the corner.

“Lumiere in Durham was a truly enchanting experience for me and my 15-year-old daughter. What struck us the most was how this event transformed the city into a nocturnal art masterpiece. The way they illuminated iconic buildings and public spaces left us in awe. It’s the perfect way to embrace the darker nights and get into the winter spirit. We’ll cherish the memories from Lumiere forever.”

– Chloe, 45

Are you eager to create your own sky lantern and then let it off into the night sky? This environmentally friendly workshop offers a chance for you to design your own LED lantern and then let them fly off during a parade.

At the awesome lantern event, you will have a chance to hear ambient music and see everyone’s public lanterns! With loads of entertainment, delicious food and a Christmas market. This sounds like the perfect day out to set your lanterns free and enjoy the festive events!

“My 13-year-old daughter and I had an amazing time at the Lantern Workshop in Workington! The best part was creating our own LED lanterns and then releasing them into the night sky during the parade. It was not only a magical experience but also an environmentally friendly one. The ambient music and the sight of everyone’s lanterns added to the festive atmosphere. A perfect day out for creativity and celebration!”

– Ellie, 44

Explore outdoor spaces decorated with an array of bright and beautiful light displays of all shapes and sizes.

From tower projections and light art to whimsical displays and quirky animations! Not to mention the iconic Blackpool Festival, which is the world’s biggest FREE light display.

It’s a must-see and must-do attraction!

“Our recent visit to the Lightpool Festival in Blackpool was a true delight for our family. As a dad with a 2-year-old daughter and a 5-year-old son, I was thrilled to see their faces light up (literally!) at the whimsical displays and quirky animations. But what truly amazed us was the iconic Blackpool Festival, the world’s largest FREE light display. It’s a must-see for families, and we can’t recommend it enough!”

– David, 36

Enjoy the amazing lights this festive season. With a breathtaking garden filled with glowing lanterns, a light trail and mini chalets! This sounds like a great day out with the family. The magical lantern displays are filled with bright lights and a beautiful illuminated light trail!

After seeing the splendid Winter Lantern Festival, head on down to the Village Square and grab yourself a hot chocolate or mulled wine. Don’t forget to visit the cafes and restaurants, too, and enjoy the delicious festive treats and dishes with your loved ones!

“RHS Glow at RHS Garden Wisley was a delightful experience for my 10-year-old daughter and me. The magical lantern displays and illuminated light trail were truly enchanting, and we were both in awe of the bright lights. What made it even more special was the Village Square with hot chocolate and mulled wine, perfect for a cosy family outing. We couldn’t resist the festive treats, making it a memorable day!”

– Olivia, 46

The light festival includes brightly lit lantern installations, impressive displays and even performances from amazing acts. This mesmerising experience lets you enjoy the outdoors and amazing light displays to get you into a festive mood.

After seeing the light festival filled with thousands of LED Lights. You can enjoy the festive market, free activities and food markets. This friendly family event is great for the whole family to enjoy together!

“We had an incredible time at Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival 2023 with our 5-year-old twins. The mesmerising LED lantern installations and impressive displays truly lit up our festive spirits. It’s the perfect way to kickstart the holiday season!”

– Oscar and Amy, 34

The Cambridge University Botanic Gardens is holding its FIRST-ever winter trail this year!

After dark, when the night sky takes over, you’ll find an enchanting glow of light radiating along the gardens. From stunning light displays and art installations depicting flowers and magical scenes through the natural landscape. What will you discover this winter?

It’s the perfect winter day out that the whole family can enjoy. There will even be hot drinks and light bites that will keep you warm and bring the festive spirit to you!

“We recently visited the Cambridge Botanic Lights with our two daughters, and it was an enchanting experience for our family. As parents, we appreciated the serene atmosphere that made it a perfect winter day out. The unique selling point that stood out to us was the stunning light displays and flower lanterns in the gardens. It truly felt like we were in a winter wonderland. This is a must-visit for families seeking a memorable and festive outing!”
– Raine and Archie, 38

Discover a magnificent evening filled with beautiful lanterns, spectacular displays of light and and delightful experience this winter.

With a BRAND NEW trail, Land of Lights is excited to have you back! Uncover 12 incredible worlds all inspired by mythical and legendary fairytales and iconic characters.

From beautiful phoenix birds and magical creatures to Frozen Lands, Undersea Kingdoms and more! Lanterns are bigger and brighter than ever. This 1-mile trail is sure to bring smiles to your faces, with light installations around every corner, there are ample opportunities for a selfie!

“We had an enchanting time at Land of Lights in Milton Keynes with our 10-year-old granddaughter and the whole family. The new trail filled with mythical and legendary fairytale worlds was absolutely captivating. What stood out the most was the larger-than-life lanterns that brought these stories to life. And with the abundance of light installations, we couldn’t resist taking plenty of memorable selfies. Land of Lights is a must-visit for all generations!”

– Maria, 60

Immerse yourself in the magical world of lanterns and venture on an after-dark journey through the Shugborough Estate. Explore the dazzling display and illuminated trail full of wonder and intrigue to delight and enthral all your senses.

As darkness creeps up on us, join Luminate on an enchanting journey. Weave through a captivating light trail through the stunning, historic grounds of Shugborough Estate. Immerse yourself in a mesmerising mile-long trail with stunning lighting elements and fabulous light play, all set to ambient music.

A timeless experience to be enjoyed by all, young and old alike.

“Our family had an unforgettable night at Luminate, Shugborough Estate! As a dad of a 4-year-old, I was amazed by how captivating the illuminated trail was for my little one. The magical lighting elements and ambient music truly brought the Shugborough Estate to life. It’s a timeless experience that mesmerized both young and old in our family. Luminate is a must-visit, and we can’t wait to return!”

– Jack, 36

Come to Bolsover Castle and be part of the annual Bolsover Christmas Festival and Lantern Parade – having been going on for 26 years, it’s a proper local tradition! If you live in the area (S44 residents), you can even enter the castle for free. The lantern parade will start from the castle grounds and will continue into the city centre. It may not be as big as some of the other events on this list but it’s definitely packed full of seasonal spirit.

If you want to make your own lantern for the parade, Junction Arts organises lantern-making workshops every weekend in November at Bolsover Assembly Rooms.

“As a mom of two teenagers, I can’t recommend the Bolsover Christmas Festival and Lantern Parade enough! It’s a cherished local tradition that we’ve enjoyed for years. What sets it apart is the warm community atmosphere. We loved that S44 residents like us could enter the castle for free. Plus, the lantern-making workshops by Junction Arts added a personal touch to our experience. Bolsover Castle truly shines during the holiday season!”

– Kelly, 49