Two years ago, the inaugural Washington State Chinese Lantern Festival illuminated the Spokane night sky like never before. Since then, it has become an annual tradition, typically taking place at the end of September and lasting for five weeks.

While this year’s dates haven’t officially been confirmed, the festival will return this fall… and you won’t want to miss it.

The Spokane Chinese Lantern Festival is a celebration of Chinese culture featuring massive lanterns, amazing performances, and incredible food.

Karyn Chrystner / Flickr

This festival marked the first time the accomplished Chinese company, Tianyu, brought its traditional-style lanterns to the United States.

Karyn Christner / Flickr

The festival takes place at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane, one of the most beautiful places in the city.

Karyn Christner / Flickr Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for youth. Children three and under are free.

If you attended the festival last year or the year before, don’t worry - the lanterns are different every year.

VisitSpokane Facebook The lanterns aren’t reused. The production company has a goal of giving guests a new experience every year.

While the lanterns certainly steal the show, there’s a lot more to see and do at the park during the festival.

VisitSpokane Facebook Daily performances by Chinese artists and acrobats and several local food trucks serving Asian fare. Last year, there was a documentary shown at the IMAZ Theater about how the lanterns are made and how the festival is produced.

This year’s lantern festival will kick off sometime in September. Dates will be announced here. In the meantime, pass the time by attending some of these amazing local food festivals.

Karyn Chrystner / Flickr

Karyn Christner / Flickr

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for youth. Children three and under are free.

VisitSpokane Facebook

The lanterns aren’t reused. The production company has a goal of giving guests a new experience every year.

Daily performances by Chinese artists and acrobats and several local food trucks serving Asian fare. Last year, there was a documentary shown at the IMAZ Theater about how the lanterns are made and how the festival is produced.

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