Things to Do

Over 1,000 Chinese Lanterns to Light Up the Inaugural DC Winter Lantern Festival

After three years in New York, this one-of-a-kind festival is heading down to Northern Virginia to spread cheer throughout the holiday season.

By Dawn Klavon November 22, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Let there be light! Bundle up the kids and head over to the DC Winter Lantern Festival, coming to Lerner Town Square in Tysons II from December 16 to February 12.

The first of its kind in the DMV, the Winter Lantern Festival creates a dazzling world of light with over 1,000 Chinese lanterns — all handmade by highly skilled artisans. Experience the glorious glow of the colorful lanterns and bright displays that will light the night and bring warmth this holiday season.

dc lantern festival — *Photo courtesy DC Winter Lantern Festival*

The festival is open Friday through Sunday (and daily from December 23 to January 1) from 5-10 p.m. throughout its nearly two-month run in Tysons. Tickets for the event are $19.99 for children ages 3-12 and $31.99 for those 13 and older.

Held in New York the last three years, the “Insta-worthy” festival attracts 150,000 guests annually. Now Northern Virginia hosts the distinctive display, offering an unforgettable, family-friendly activity.

*Photo courtesy DC Winter Lantern Festival*

For two months, Lerner Town Square will transform into a dazzling world of light. Bring your whole family and stroll through a magical wonderland of light that includes Chinese myths, legends, and zodiacs. In addition, see handmade lanterns encompassing a world of ice, including displays of mammoths, polar bears, and penguins. Kids will also enjoy the interactive light swings, seesaws, and tunnels. There’s plenty to do for guests of all ages, so don’t miss what’s sure to become a family tradition. 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons

Feature image courtesy DC Winter Lantern Festival

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Dawn Klavon

Contributing Writer

Dawn Klavon is a seasoned writer and reporter with more than 20 years of experience in print and broadcast journalism. She contributes to a wide range of publications, including Northern Virginia Magazine, PEOPLE, Virginia Living, Bethesda Magazine, Arlington Magazine, and several military-focused outlets. Earlier in her career, she reported for multiple San Francisco Bay Area television stations, including KLXV, KKPX, and KFCB. She holds an MLA from Harvard University and a BS from Boston University.