let us do the work

Effortlessly plan your next adventure with AI
ExperiencesEventsFestivals

The Water Lantern Festival In Colorado That’s A Night Of Pure Magic

The Water Lantern Festival in Colorado Springs offers a magical night of floating lanterns, live entertainment, and delicious food trucks.

Updated Jun 5, 2024

Written by 

Annie Sandmeier

This Water Lantern Festival in Colorado is one unique activity to include in your summer planning to-do list. Launching a lit lantern on the water may not seem like a big deal, but when it is done as a group it is enchanting. While there is plenty to see and do around the Centennial State, we cannot help but gush about one of the best festivals in Colorado — a night of pure magic.

Taking place on Aug. 24, 2024, the Water Lantern Festival is billed as THE place for "fun, happiness, hope, and great memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime."

People gather by a serene lake at dusk, releasing glowing lanterns that float on the water's surface.
Water Lantern Festival Facebook

Located at Prospect Lake in Colorado Springs, the Water Lantern Festival promises fun for the entire family as hundreds of environmentally friendly lanterns are lit and launched into the lake, making for an incredible experience you will never forget.

Aerial view of a lakeside gathering with glowing lanterns and blankets spread out on the ground at dusk.
Water Lantern Festival/Facebook

In addition to the launch itself, each ticket includes your own floating lantern and LED candle, plus a marker for decorating and complimentary lantern retrieval and water clean-up.

Illuminated paper lanterns with handwritten messages float on water, creating a serene and hopeful atmosphere.
Water Lantern Festival Facebook

The Water Lantern Festival - which was voted the Best Cultural Festival by USA Today - is committed to ensuring a sustainable event, which they do with lanterns made of rice paper, recyclable LED candles, and a thorough cleaning crew who goes above and beyond after each event.

A person holds a handwritten tribute near a crowd by a lake, expressing love and remembrance for a loved one.
Water Lantern Festival Facebook

In case you need another reason to visit, the Water Lantern Festival will also feature live entertainment and delicious food trucks galore. Yum!

A crowd gathers around food trucks at an outdoor event on a sunny day, with trees and streetlights in the background.
Water Lantern Festival/Facebook

Admission to the Water Lantern Festival starts at $35.99 for adults, with an early bird special if you purchase tickets before June 11, 2024.

Floating lanterns illuminate a dark water surface, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Water Lantern Festival Facebook

For a peaceful evening to spread messages of hope, join the crowd and watch the captivating lights in the shimmering water.

Two people gently placing glowing lanterns into a waterway at dusk, surrounded by a crowd enjoying the moment.
Water Lantern Festival/Facebook

The Water Lantern Festival in Colorado offers more information on its website. Who will you bring with you to the Water Lantern Festival? Let them know by tagging them in the comments below!

While you're there, discover why Colorado Springs is one of the most desirable places to live. And if you're traveling through, reserve a charming Vrbo.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/colorado/most-desirable-place-co/

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Nature

The Most Beautiful Lake in Florida That Many People Have Never Heard Of

Whether you prefer to float, paddle, swim, or fish, this gorgeous North Central Florida lake is sure to win you over.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jul 11
A white sail boat perched between two cypress trees at Lake Santa Fe in Florida.
Nature

One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in Tennessee Is Surprisingly Overlooked

It's hard to get to, but that's half the fun of visiting this stunning mountain lake in East Tennessee.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jul 11
Elevated view of Calderwood Lake in East Tennessee, surrounded by blue and green mountains.
Nature
Hiking

Moonshiners Cave Trail Sounds Intense, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Arkansas

Moonshiners Cave Trail sounds like a scary hiking trail in Arkansas where outlaws could be hiding, but in reality, it's a peaceful walk to a historic cave.

by Katie Lawrence
on Jul 10
Historic stone moonshiner hideout beside a scenic waterfall on the Moonshiners Cave Trail in Arkansas surrounded by lush forest.
Trips & Routes

This Walkable City in Louisiana Is a Must-Visit Gem

Baton Rouge is easy to explore on foot, with scenic views, local shops, and must-see attractions all within walking distance.

by Christy Articola
on Jul 10
The Lousiana Capitol Building lit up at night.
Nature
Hiking

Rough Canyon Trail Sounds Intense, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Oklahoma

Don’t be intimidated by the name; this Oklahoma trail is a natural playground with lots of rock scrambling. Find out why it’s worth it.

by Melanie Johnson
on Jul 10
Inside a carved canyon along the Rough Canyon Trail in OK, featuring a rocky terrain, a stream, and greenery.