Chinese Lantern Festival Illuminates Philly: See Pics, Festival Info

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia's Chinese Lantern Festival returns to Franklin Square, bringing a new set of illuminated displays, live performances and food to the Center City park.

The event will run daily from 6-11 p.m. from June 5 through Aug. 16. It will be closed July 4.

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The 2026 festival is themed around the Year of the Horse, symbolizing energy, passion, freedom and transformation, according to festival organizers. Visitors will walk through landscapes filled with lantern sculptures made from steel frames and vibrant silk.

All of the lanterns will be new this year, including pieces tied to international events coming to Philadelphia this summer. The display lineup includes more than 1,100 individual creations across nearly 40 installations.

In addition to the lanterns, the festival will include live cultural stage performances and a choreographed fountain light show at the historic Rendell Family Fountain. Dining and drinking options will include Asian cuisine, American comfort food and signature cocktails in the Cocktail Garden.

The festival also will extend Franklin Square's 20th Birthday Season into the evening, with discounted access to Philly Mini Golf and the Parx Liberty Carousel.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Historic Philadelphia, Inc., which supports free events at Franklin Square throughout the year.

Franklin Square will remain open and free during regular daytime hours while the festival is running. The playground will also remain fully open and free during the day and evening, with access only from 7th Street.

Visitors can view the lanterns for free during the day and take part in a free scavenger hunt, but tickets are required for entry after 6 p.m. There is no re-entry at night, and the park will close daily at 5 p.m. to prepare for the evening festival.

Advance tickets are strongly recommended, with updates to be posted at phillychineselanternfestival.org.