a lantern with a heart on floats on the water

Imagine holding your loved one’s hand, surrounded by thousands of glowing lanterns lighting up the water while calming music plays in the background. Well, the Water Lantern Festival is the perfect opportunity to experience this dreamy vision.

On October 12, watch Clapham Common Park transform into a galaxy of wishes. Create lasting memories with your nearest and dearest while witnessing thousands of glowing lanterns illuminate the water. Whether you’re honouring loved ones or having a romantic evening, the Water Lantern Festival provides a space for self-expression and connection. What message will you send out onto the water?

a little girl with a flower crown about to release a water lantern
What can you expect at the Water Lantern Festival?

During this enchanting celebration, you are invited to decorate your lanterns with hopes, dreams, memories, or messages. As the sun sets, these personalised lanterns are released onto the water, creating a stunning and emotional display. Plus, a perfect photo opportunity!

Be sure to bring along the little ones, too, as there are a variety of child-friendly experiences, making it a perfect family day out. The Water Lantern Festival will be filled with local food trucks, live music, and other activities. All are bringing thousands of families, friends, and strangers to celebrate life together.

Why is this event so special?

This is more than just a visual show for families and couples; The festival shines a light on community and charity dedicated to creating a positive environmental and social impact.

The Water Lantern Festival partners with charities and non-profit organisations, including Water.org, dedicated to providing safe water globally. The goal is to raise awareness, offer donation opportunities, and build strong relationships with local institutions.

To keep things extra sustainable, even the lanterns are made from sustainable materials, featuring rice paper covers and wooden bases. While LED candles are reused and recycled whenever possible.

someone holds a lantern with the words 'love,life,hope, peace, prosperity for all' on
Where can you get the tickets?

This year, Water Lantern Festival is going to be bigger than ever, with over 100 festivals being planned worldwide, including Manchester, London, Edinburgh, and Birmingham in the UK. A full festival ticket varies from a general admission ticket to a date night special (we’re talking big romantic vibes) or a group offer for friends and family. All you have to do is book your ticket and enjoy the evening.

Where and when will it take place?

This is a bucket-list experience you’ll talk about for years! Running on October 12, with a 4-hour access window, the Water Lantern Festival will light up Clapham Common Park, creating a magical space for dreams and storytelling.

You can easily get to Clapham Common via the Northern Line on the Tube, with stations at both the north (Clapham Common) and south (Clapham South) ends of the park. Alternatively, numerous bus routes stop directly at the park, or you can take a train to Clapham High Street or Clapham Junction and then walk or catch a short bus ride. Just follow the light and head over.

The Water Lantern Festival allows visitors to share their lives and express their creativity, empowering them to connect with others, embrace their unique journeys, and contribute to positive change.

With over 150 events hosted across the world annually, the Water Lantern Festival prides itself on celebrating each community it serves, collaborating with local businesses and charities to showcase unique flavours, talents, and causes. Every lantern tells a story, leaving you inspired and connected to something bigger than yourself.

Event details

Water Lantern Festival