In the Chinese Lunar New Year tradition, lanterns symbolize hope and prosperity while warding off evil spirits. Boy, we sure could use a lot of lanterns.
The family-friendly Lunar Lantern Festival promises a “massive” lantern release, along with traditional Lion Dance performances, a $1,000 “Squid Game”-style challenge and dozens of Asian street food and retail vendors.
The drive to Dade City should be worth it to escape some light pollution and let those lanterns do their thing. Releases are at 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Lunar Lantern Festival
Time Sat., Feb. 14, 2-11 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 15, 2-11 p.m. 2026
Location Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
This article appears in Feb. 05 – 11, 2026.