Grand Rapids Lantern Festival returns for 4th year

Annual event features large-scale, handmade lantern installations at John Ball Zoo.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival is returning for its fourth year, taking place at the John Ball Zoo. The festival will feature dozens of large-scale, handmade lantern installations, with this year's theme being 'Realms of Wonder'.

Why it matters

The Lantern Festival has become a beloved annual tradition in Grand Rapids, drawing thousands of visitors to experience the stunning light displays and celebrate the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.

The details

The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival features dozens of large-scale, handmade lantern installations created by local and regional artists. The lanterns are designed around a central theme, with this year's event focusing on the 'Realms of Wonder'. The festival takes place at the John Ball Zoo, allowing visitors to explore the illuminated displays throughout the zoo's grounds.

  • The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival returns for its fourth year in 2026.
  • The festival is scheduled to take place on March 11, 2026.

The players

John Ball Zoo

A zoo located in Grand Rapids, Michigan that hosts the annual Lantern Festival.

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What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Grand Rapids Lantern Festival will go on sale in early 2026, with the event expected to sell out quickly as it has in previous years.

The takeaway

The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival has become a must-see event for locals and visitors alike, showcasing the city's vibrant arts and culture scene through the stunning, large-scale lantern installations that transform the John Ball Zoo into a magical, illuminated wonderland.