Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square

In tribute to the Year of the Horse and the excitement of Philadelphia’s 250th Anniversary celebrations, this year’s Festival will glow with breathtaking light, art, culture, and global spirit. In celebration of the Year of the Horse – symbolizing energy, passion, freedom, and transformation – the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square will glow with breathtaking light, art, culture, and global spirit from June 5 – August 16, 2026. The Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage and master craftsmanship behind this timeless art form. Visitors will wander through glowing landscapes filled with magnificent, illuminated sculptures, each piece crafted from steel frames and vibrant silk. All of the lanterns will be brand new, including one-of-a-kind lanterns celebrating the international events coming to Philadelphia this summer. The lanterns blend the magic of Chinese tradition with the spirit of global connection and friendly competition, along with themes of animals and flowers. In addition to the stunning lantern displays, guests can enjoy live cultural stage performances, a choreographed fountain light show at the historic Rendell Family Fountain, as well as food and drink offerings such as Asian cuisine, American comfort food, and signature cocktails in the Cocktail Garden. Guests can also play Philly Mini Golf and ride the Parx Liberty Carousel at a discounted rate, extending the Franklin Square 20th Birthday fun into the evening. A portion of the proceeds benefits Historic Philadelphia, Inc., supporting the care, programming, and year-round free events that make Franklin Square a vibrant gathering place for all. Tianyu Arts and Culture is an international event design and manufacturing company headquartered in Zigong, Sichuan, China – the world’s lantern capital.