Experience the Poconos Lantern Festival in PA
Each year, the night sky comes alive with the soft glow of thousands of lanterns at the Poconos Lantern Festival. It’s one of the most impressive events of the year, and for good reason. Unlike the annual lantern festivals that take place in many Asian countries, you don’t have to fly thousands of miles to enjoy the festivities! Everything you need to know about the Poconos Lantern Festival is right here.
Don’t miss out on the other fantastic events and festivals in the Poconos! Request access to our free Pocono Mountains Vacation Guide for instant access to top recommendations on what to do during your trip.
Environmental Responsibility
The festival organizers are committed to environmental sustainability. A dedicated cleaning crew and “lantern chasers” monitor wind conditions to ensure every lantern released is accounted for. The cleanup process is thorough, taking place over 48 hours and involving multiple trips to survey the area. All lanterns used in the festival are 100% biodegradable, crafted from rice paper, bamboo, and string, minimizing their environmental impact.
Making the Most of Your Visit
To enhance your experience, plan to get there early to
secure a good viewing spot and enjoy the pre-launch festivities. Bring a camp
chair, blanket, and jacket for comfort as the evening cools down. While outside
coolers aren’t allowed, a variety of food options are available on-site,
including indulgent s’mores kits and warm beverages to complement the festive
atmosphere.
Where to Eat
Before heading to the Poconos Lantern Festival, consider dining at a fabulous restaurant nearby. Lake Naomi Clubhouse offers a delightful lakefront dining experience with both casual and fine dining options. For a taste of Italian cuisine, Basso Cucina Italiana is a family-run restaurant known for its authentic dishes and warm atmosphere, perfect for a pre-festival meal. If you’re in the mood for breakfast or brunch, Compton’s Pancake House serves delicious pancakes and comfort food all day, making it a great spot to fuel up before the festivities. These nearby dining options will ensure you have a satisfying meal before enjoying the magical evening at the festival.
What to Do Nearby
Make the most of your day by exploring the diverse things to do in the Poconos before heading to the Lantern Festival. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, pristine lakes for swimming, and opportunities for summer activities like kayaking and fishing. Enjoy snow tubing, ice skating, or cross-country skiing in the winter at nearby ski areas.
If you’re interested in arts and culture, the Poconos features a vibrant arts community with local theaters, galleries, and live performances that showcase the area’s creative spirit. For those looking to unwind after a day of activities, the nightlife scene includes various restaurants, microbreweries, and bars offering live music and entertainment. Additionally, shopping enthusiasts can explore quaint downtown districts featuring unique boutiques and antique shops. With so much to see and do, the Poconos offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation to complement your experience at the Lantern Festival.
And if you can’t get enough of the illuminated night sky at the Pocono Lantern Festival, you can take in more incredible views of the night sky by stargazing in Pennsylvania!
Stay at Mountaintop Lodge at Lake Naomi
Mountaintop Lodge at Lake Naomi is the ideal place to mull over the enchanting evening. We’re less than 10 minutes from the Pocono Raceway, and our setting by the tranquil Lake Naomi amidst fragrant pine trees will sustain the quiet sense of awe you’ll feel after attending the Poconos Lantern Festival.
Adding our “I Love You” Every Day Of The Year Package to your stay, the perfect way to surprise that special person in your life and show just how much they mean to you! The two of you will be treated to a vase with a beautiful six rose floral arrangement; a bottle of chilled white wine, red wine, or sparkling cider; two souvenir Mountaintop Lodge ceramic coffee mugs; and gourmet truffles and chocolate-covered strawberries from a local chocolate shop. Head back home feeling refreshed and reconnected with your sweetheart.
