NYC Winter Lantern Festival
Part of the magic of winter is all about lights, and NYC is no stranger to spectacular, mouth-dropping experiences like the NYC Winter Lantern Festival.
We recently visited this illuminated experience at the Queens County Farm location to see the beautiful transformation of the farm into an immersive world of light and play. They also have locations in New York at SIUH Community Park in Staten Island, Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, and Smithtown Historical Society in Suffolk County, depending on your location.
The experience includes the chance to see and experience over 10,000 of LED Chinese-inspired artisan lanterns. Incredibly, all of these lanterns are all handmade by artisans, which are quite the sight to see up close. The details of every lantern are stunning, adding depth to the displays of Chinese myths and legends. Every larger-than-life display is beautifully paired with smaller lights that tells a story while giving viewers a chance to look even deeper at the display, and the world it depicts.
This includes bright and vivid octopuses, mermaids, a blinking trees, and of course tons of illuminated tunnels for magical photo opportunities. One really unique aspect of this experience is that visitors can “choose-their-own-adventure,” going down one path, and then finding their way down another. There is no direct route where you can walk through multiple times and discover something new every time. I really appreciated that since it allowed us to take in the sights and go back to see them again, or try a new path.
After walking through the experience, we went to the illuminated playground. My kids loved this space that was filled with circular swings, a mini bike, and see-saws. There were also some benches to eat and relax as well as nearby food trucks on site, including a taco truck, a Taiwanese food stand, and hot chocolate as well as other illuminated trinkets (lights, swords, etc) for purchase. Families can also enjoy live performances, which takes place throughout the night.
A magical world of light and art, the NYC Winter Lantern festival is a spectacular way for families to enjoy the craftsmanship and beauty of these artisan installations this winter.
NYC Winter Lantern Festival Details
General Admission: $26.99/person + $2 service fee
Youth (ages 3-12): $17.99/youth + $2 service fee
The festival is also held at SIUH Community Park in Staten Island, Nassau County Museum of Art in Roslyn, and Smithtown Historical Society in Suffolk County.
