LanternFest returns to Calgary’s International Avenue this weekend for its fifth year, with a free evening celebrating lantern traditions, art, and culture from around the world. The evening will include lantern-making, live performances, face painting, food trucks, and illuminated art lighting up the street after sunset.
Now let’s take a further look at what to expect at this year’s LanternFest.
What to expect at LanternFest
What is LanternFest?
LanternFest is an annual arts and culture celebration on International Avenue that explores how lanterns are used in celebrations and traditions worldwide. According to the International Avenue Arts and Culture Community (IAACC), the event was designed to educate Calgarians about lantern traditions and their cultural significance.
What can I do while I’m there?
Throughout the evening, you can take part in a variety of activities. You can make your own lantern, explore the lantern history exhibit, and learn about the different traditions celebrated around the world.
According to IAACC, this year’s LanternFest will also feature new cultural performances, and you’ll have an opportunity to interact with performers and learn about the cultural significance behind them.
There will also be face painting, henna, and caricatures throughout the evening, along with roaming performers.
You can also spend some time at the skating rink, with free skate rentals available during the event.
And once the sun goes down, illuminated art will be on display around the event site.
When is Lantern-Fest?
The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Where is LanternFest?
LanternFest will take place on 32nd Street SE between 17th Avenue SE and 19th Avenue SE, between the Rexall and Chicken on the Way. According to organizers, parking will be available on the service street parallel to 17th Avenue SE, as well as in nearby parking lots.
Is the event free to attend?
The festival is completely free to attend. Organizers ask that you register online for complimentary tickets so they can track attendance.
During registration, you can also choose to make a donation. According to the IAACC, the donations will directly support artists and cultural programming in Forest Lawn and surrounding communities.
Lanterns have been part of celebrations across cultures for centuries, and LanternFest is a chance to see some of those traditions brought together right here in Calgary. So head down to International Avenue this weekend and see what’s lighting up the neighbourhood.
LanternFest
When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: International Avenue – 32nd Street SE, Calgary, Alta. (between 17th Avenue and 19th Avenue SE, Calgary, Alta.)
Cost: Free (registration is required)
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