Let It Glow: Why You Need to Experience the Water Lantern Festival
Looking for a glowing idea for your next date night? The Water Lantern Festival is about to lantern up your weekend with food, fun, and floating wishes. There’s something undeniably magical about a summer evening spent by the water—especially when it’s filled with twinkling lanterns, mouthwatering food, and a warm sense of community.
Whether you’re planning a romantic outing, a peaceful family experience, or just need a serene escape to reflect, this glowing festival is an unforgettable experience that’s popping up in cities across the country—including right here in Minnesota.
We attended the one in Maple Grove, but you can find upcoming events nationwide, often in scenic lakeside parks near you. Click here to find an event near you.
Here’s everything you need to know about this soul-soothing celebration of light, love, and letting go.
What Is the Water Lantern Festival?
The Water Lantern Festival is an immersive celebration of hope, peace, love, and togetherness, where thousands of lanterns are set afloat across calm waters. It’s more than just a visual spectacle—it’s a heartfelt gathering that invites people of all ages to connect, heal, reflect, and celebrate life’s meaningful moments.
Held in cities across the country, the festival is rooted in ancient lantern ceremonies that symbolize letting go of past hardships and setting intentions for the future. Whether you’re releasing a lantern for a loved one, making a wish for yourself, or simply soaking in the ambiance, it’s an experience that touches the soul.
What to Expect at the Festival
This isn’t just a lantern release—it’s a full evening of activities and entertainment, designed to bring people together in a meaningful and memorable way.
Here’s what the night includes:
- Lantern Decorating Station: Each guest receives a lantern kit with a marker to customize it with drawings, wishes, or messages.
- Food Truck Fare: Sample savory bites and sweet treats from local vendors (vegetarian options included!).
- Live Music & Entertainment: Enjoy the vibes with live performances as the sun sets.
- The Lantern Launch: As night falls, lanterns float gently on the water, creating a serene and unforgettable scene.
Our Experience
My husband and I attended the Water Lantern Festival in Maple Grove, and it turned out to be one of our favorite date nights since moving to Minnesota. The setting was beautiful, but what truly made the evening special was the personal connection we felt during the lantern decorating process.
Each guest receives a lantern and marker, and while I’m no artist (so no judging my doodles!), it was surprisingly emotional to draw and write down things close to my heart. At the time, we were planning to buy our first home in Minnesota, so I drew a little house. I also wrote, “Sometimes you have to let things go”—a reminder to embrace change as we started over in a new country, in a new chapter of life. And finally, I added, “The best is yet to come.”
It was a creative, reflective, and unexpectedly powerful experience—one we’ll never forget.
The Water Lantern Festival also runs nationwide, and each city has its own magical vibe. You can find upcoming event locations, dates, and times at the official website here: www.waterlanternfestival.com
Ticket Types & What’s Included
There are several ticket options, depending on the experience you’re looking for:
General Admission includes:
- Entry wristband for festival access
- One floating lantern kit (lantern, tealight, and marker)
- Playing cards & conversation cards
- Commemorative drawstring bag
- Entry into a fun scavenger hunt giveaway
Date Night Package includes:
- Two General Admission tickets
- One cozy park blanket or mandala throw to share—perfect for snuggling up on the grass
VIP Ticket includes:
- Everything in General Admission
- Exclusive access to the VIP tent with snacks and drinks
- A commemorative Water Lantern Festival T-shirt
Your ticket also supports a good cause: helping organizers collect and safely remove the lanterns from the water after the event and clean up any debris in the area.
Ticket Tip
Although we attended the Maple Grove festival, you can catch the Water Lantern Festival in cities all over the U.S., from coast to coast. Each location has its own unique charm, but the heart of the experience stays the same.
Pro tip: Be sure to buy tickets early online—prices go up at the gate, and they often sell out! Book your tickets here.
Why It’s Perfect for a Date Night or Family Outing
The Water Lantern Festival offers something meaningful for everyone:
- Couples: Share a peaceful evening filled with conversation, creativity, and connection.
- Families: Great for all ages—with safe, fun activities and a calming atmosphere.
- Friends: Make it a unique group outing—something more heartfelt than your typical night out.
Photo Tips
This is a photographer’s dream! To capture the glow and ambiance:
- Use a phone tripod or stabilize your hands to avoid blur during the lantern release.
- Snap golden hour photos before sunset.
- Take a mix of wide shots of the lake and close-ups of decorated lanterns.
- Don’t forget a selfie with your lantern before it drifts off!
Packing List: What to Bring
- Picnic blanket or lawn chairs
- Reusable water bottle
- Cash or card for food vendors
- Sweater or light jacket for the evening chill
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
- Phone or camera for photos
Optional extras: twinkle lights, comfy picnic snacks, and some creativity for your lantern art!
FAQs About the Water Lantern Festival
Is the event family-friendly?
Yes! Kids, grandparents, and everyone in between are welcome to enjoy this peaceful celebration.
What happens if it rains?
Most festivals are rain or shine, but check their social media for weather updates and potential reschedules.
Can I bring my pet?
Many locations allow leashed pets, but double-check park regulations before you go.
Do I need to be artistic to decorate a lantern?
Not at all! It’s about intention, not perfection. Whether you write a message, draw a stick figure, or just keep it simple, it’s all meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re writing a wish for the future, honoring a memory, or just soaking up the peaceful ambiance of lanterns dancing on the water, the Water Lantern Festival is one of Minnesota’s most enchanting summer traditions.
It’s more than just a beautiful event—it’s a reminder that even in a new place, with new challenges, there’s always room for reflection, connection, and hope. And who knows? Like us, you might just leave with full hearts and a sense that the best is yet to come.
Share Your Experience
Did you check out this experience or try one of these local favorites?
I’d love to hear what you thought! Leave a comment or review below to share your experience—it helps other readers discover the best of Minnesota too.
Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @minnecravings if you post photos from your visit! Whether it’s a delicious restaurant, a scenic getaway, or a fun local activity. You can also follow along on Pinterest, TikTok and Facebook for more Minnesota finds, travel tips, and foodie cravings.
Looking for more unique events like this? Check out my Splatter Paints or The Ultimate Guide to Valleyfair
