Top Lantern Festivals in California

Top Lantern Festivals in California You Shouldn’t Miss

In the culturally diverse state of California, lantern festivals have become one of the most beloved public events during the winter and holiday seasons. From traditional Chinese lantern fairs to immersive art light experiences, these events have evolved into key moments for family outings, romantic dates, and cultural tourism. So, are there any lantern festivals in California? Absolutely. Here’s a curated list of some of the most iconic light festivals across the state.

1. L.A. Zoo Lights – Los Angeles Zoo

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Every winter, the Los Angeles Zoo transforms into a magical nighttime wonderland, illuminated by thousands of lights. While the festival features primarily animal-themed displays, you’ll also spot Oriental elements like traditional lanterns, making it a family favorite.

2. Lantern Light Festival – San Bernardino

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This festival blends traditional Chinese lantern art with modern LED lighting, showcasing giant lanterns in the form of dragons, phoenixes, and the Great Wall. The event is infused with music and interactive features that celebrate Asian culture and attract a diverse audience.

3. Moonlight Forest – Arcadia Botanical Garden

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Hosted by the Los Angeles County Arboretum, this event features Chinese lantern artistry in harmony with the garden’s natural landscape. Themes vary annually, from “Panda Kingdom” to “Fantasy Adventure,” making it a top choice for photography and family outings.

4. Global Winter Wonderland – Santa Clara

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Combining Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year celebrations, this carnival-like event includes a Ferris wheel, light mazes, global cuisine, and themed lantern zones representing various cultures from around the world.

5. Lightscape at San Diego Botanic Garden

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While not a traditional lantern festival, Lightscape offers a similar visual impact. Through digital projections, colorful tunnels, and archway installations, it creates an immersive nighttime light experience perfect for couples and art lovers.

Additional Cities in California Hosting Lantern-Inspired Events:

• San Francisco Lantern Festival: Cultural lantern installations held in Union Square during select years.
• Sacramento Chinese New Year Celebration: Features lantern displays alongside dragon and lion dances.
• Irvine Spectrum Holiday Lights: Light displays set in a modern commercial plaza.
• Riverside Festival of Lights: A fusion of Christmas lights and lantern-style decorations.

Soft Mention: Planning to Host Your Own Lantern Festival in California?

With the increasing popularity of lantern-themed festivals in California, many cities and venues are exploring the idea of hosting their own custom light shows. If you’re an event organizer, cultural institution, shopping center, or destination operator, consider partnering with HOYECHI for professional large-scale lantern manufacturing and design.

HOYECHI specializes in custom-designed lantern displays for festivals, parks, city events, and commercial installations. From traditional Chinese motifs to Western seasonal styles, our team offers end-to-end support including creative design, prototyping, production, packaging, shipping, and installation—all tailored to your site and audience needs.

So, are there any lantern festivals in California? Definitely—and they’re only getting more exciting each year. Whether you’re visiting a botanical garden or a cultural fair, these light-filled events bring warmth and wonder to California nights. And if you’re planning to launch your own lantern event, visit parklightshow.com to explore how HOYECHI can help bring your vision to life.