The Water Lantern Festival 2025

Water lantern festivals hold deep cultural and spiritual significance in many East Asian cultures, symbolising remembrance, hope and renewal. In countries such as Japan, China and Thailand, floating lanterns often honour the spirits of deceased loved ones; the act of releasing a lantern onto water is a symbolic way of guiding spirits to peace.

Now the experience has extended to Australia, too. This inclusive event is touring the east coast in April and May, promising unforgettable nights of lights, love and reflection that’s perfect for families, couples and friends.

A general admission ticket provides entry to the festival and comes with everything you need to participate – including a floating lantern with a marker and LED candle, playing cards and conversation cards, a drawstring bag, and entry to the festival’s scavenger hunt giveaway.

Lanterns are made from sustainable materials, and the price of admission helps cover the cost of the site clean-up. All you have to do is decorate your lantern, write a letter to a loved one or make a wish for the future, then capture that Insta-worthy moment as thousands of lanterns float off into the sunset.

Events are all-ages, with food trucks and live music all part of the inclusive community vibe.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with The Water Lantern Festival.