The vibrant Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival has returned to Franklin Square for another year of illuminating the night sky with intricate lantern displays and cultural performances. According to Patch, running from June 20 through August 18, 2024, the festival celebrates the Year of the Dragon by spotlighting the mythological creature in 18 three-dimensional dragon sculptures scattered throughout the square. Over 900 additional dragon lanterns adorn the Palace Lantern Corridor to complement the main attractions. In this article we talk about Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival 2024.
Lantern Displays and Cultural Performances
In addition to the visually striking lanterns that infuse Chinese artistry into the heart of Philadelphia, the festival features live entertainment every evening to showcase various facets of Chinese culture. Skilled performers dazzle attendees with acts like the face-changing Sichuan opera, artistic hula-hooping, folk dances from various Chinese regions, and more. The shows run on loop from 7:30 p.m. onwards, with the musical fountain shows at the Rendell Family Fountain providing intermissions starting at 6 p.m.
The entertainment and lanterns set the mood, but the food options satisfy hungry festivalgoers with mouthwatering Chinese cuisine. Vendors like Oishii and Sang Kee serve up classic dishes to enjoy while exploring the lantern displays. Other food stands, such as SquareBurger, Humpty’s Dumplings, Hunnypie, and the Lotus Cocktail Garden, provide diverse dining choices late into the evening.
Daytime Activities at Franklin Square
In addition to the lantern festival attractions offered exclusively in the evening hours, attendees can take advantage of the other family-friendly amenities at Franklin Square throughout the daytime. The stunning Parx Liberty Carousel, Philly-themed mini golf course, and several playgrounds entertain visitors before the square clears at 5 p.m. to prepare for the main event. Tickets for the carousel and golf are sold separately.
Ticketing Information
The festival officially commences daily at 6 p.m. once the square reopens, and tickets are required for entry. Prices vary based on the day of the week, with Monday through Thursday less expensive at $25 for adults. Weekends cost slightly more at $28 per adult ticket. Discounted rates apply for youth, military, seniors, and children.
Additionally, Friday through Sunday tickets must be purchased for a specific time slot between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., which controls capacity to avoid overcrowding. General admission tickets grant re-entry privileges on Monday through Thursday in case guests wish to take a break outside the square. Given the popularity of the event, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended as on-site sales end once the square reaches maximum occupancy. I sincerely hope you find this “Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival 2024-Find Out Details” article helpful.
Skylar Lacey, a Travel and Tourism Management graduate from Temple University, offers 5 years of experience in travel writing and airport logistics at PhiladelphiaAirport.net. Her expertise helps travelers make the most of their journeys through Philadelphia International Airport. Connect with her on Instagram for more travel tips and insights.
