Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Kimberly Stroh
The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival is perfect for escaping a holiday rut. If you’re tired of doing the same winter activities yearly, head to Cary, NC, for this fun event celebrating Chinese culture. The festival is ongoing through January 12th at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre.
The Significance of Chinese Lantern Festivals
Chinese lantern-making began in the Han Dynasty, which began in 206 BC. Initially, the lanterns were very simple and were released to signify letting go of one’s “old” self in preparation for the Chinese New Year. Now, lanterns are created in elaborate shapes and gorgeous colors. Cary, NC, hosts over 25 Chinese artisans who will hand-assemble the lanterns in early November. The lanterns are made by stretching silk fabric over steel frames.
Is There More to Do Than Viewing Lanterns?
Yes! Although the lanterns are captivating, the space in the middle of the festival is reserved for an interactive playground and performances. The Quiet Tent, aside from the action, has chairs and tables. It’s a great amenity for kids looking for a little less stimulation or parents looking to nurse.
The Interactive Playground
The interactive playground is an Instagram fever dream, y’all. There are so many fun installations here. Rounded, glowing swings, fun-house mirrors, a walk-through jelly-fish-like experience… so many cool things everywhere you look. Pro-tip: Selfie sticks and tripods are allowed, so prepare to capture some great memories!
Traditional Chinese Performances
Every hour, on the hour, from 5:30 to 8:30, are on-stage performances. The acrobat team was amazing; the little boys beside me will attest to that! They loved every flip and gravity-defying act. My favorite was the ancient dramatic art of face-changing or Bian lian. The performer wears an elaborate outfit and, while dancing, changes the masks on their face with the sweep of a hand or fan. It’s simply captivating. There are also traditional music performances.
Tickets to the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
There are a few ticket options. The “any night” ticket is currently sold out, but check the event website to see if they release any more. Otherwise, you can purchase tickets for a specific date. These tickets range from $11.00 to $21.00, depending on the day you visit; weeknights will be cheaper than weekends. Guests can enjoy the festival from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
If you want to capture amazing pictures or avoid larger crowds, consider the Twilight Ticket. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. instead of the standard 6:00 p.m., so you can capture the lanterns in that “golden hour” of twilight. These tickets range from $15.00 to $31.00.
Discount Tickets for the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
No discounts are available for the Twilight Experience, but date-specific tickets offer discounts for specific populations. Discounts are available for military personnel, adults 55 and over, and college students with school IDs. No ticket is required for kids aged two and under.
Can I Bring Food Into Koka Booth Amphitheatre?
Not for this event. Guests can bring a maximum of two factory-sealed water bottles each. The concession area will sell Asian-themed foods, popcorn, and hot chocolate—regular or spiked. Food trucks are also available on Friday and Saturday nights.
Is There Free Parking for the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival?
Yes! While you can pay for preferred parking closer to the entrance, there is also free parking. The preferred parking is $10 in advance or $15 on event night. Of course, accessible parking spots are available to cars with an authorized tag on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I Bring A Stroller To the Koka Booth Amphitheatre?
Absolutely. The paths around the lanterns are paved and accessible. The only caveat is that they can get quite congested. That could be frustrating for you and your little ones. Speaking as a mom, I see three options. First, spring for the Twilight Experience ticket and go early. Second, get a date-specific ticket, but get there right as it opens at 6:00 pm. Third, park the stroller somewhere on festival grounds and carry or let the kids walk down the path.
Other Fast Facts For The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
Organizers estimate it will take 45-75 minutes to view all the displays. Pets are not allowed; only service animals are. The event will be rain or shine; however, the organizers may cancel the evening’s event for seriously inclement weather. Bags 6×8 or smaller and clear bags no larger than 12x12x9 are allowed. There is a separate entrance line for guests without bags, so you can save time by going without. Bags for medical, camera, or parenting purposes are allowed.
Stay in Cary, NC
The Mayton boutique hotel is the place for me. During both of my stays, I felt spoiled. It’s in the middle of downtown Cary, at the edge of Downtown Cary Park, making it the perfect starting point for walking to most of my favorite Cary locations. The boutique hotel has rooms that feel luxurious. Have a drink at the on-site bar or sit in front of the cozy fireplace in the lobby. Peck and Plume is the onsite restaurant, and it’s fabulous. In nice weather, I urge you to sit on their shaded terrace overlooking the park. If you’re an art lover, you’ll appreciate the artwork on the walls, all from local artists and all for sale. On-site parking is limited, but I have used the nearby Cary parking deck during my stay.
Do Something Different This Holiday Season
Take advantage of immersing your family in the traditions of another culture and view fantastic works of art! Spend time together just strolling and playing. Another benefit is that you’ll have something to talk about long after! Break out of a rut this holiday season and head to Cary, NC, for the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival.