A Night on the Water
Join the Lakes Region Tourism Association and the M/S Mount Washington as we say goodbye to summer and transform the waters of Lake Winnipesaukee into a glowing masterpiece.
The Lakes Region Lantern Festival is a celebration of hope, memory, and togetherness. As the sun sets behind the mountains, thousands of eco-friendly lanterns will be set adrift, creating a stunning display on the water.
Whether you are honoring a loved one, making a wish for the future, or simply coming to witness the beauty of the Lakes Region at night — this is a "must-see" event for all ages.
Event Details
Date
Sunday, September 6
Schedule
Gates open at 4:30 PM · Lantern Release at Sunset
Location
Center Harbor Town Docks, Center Harbor, NH
Be Part of the Magic
Get Your Lantern
Each lantern is yours to personalize with a message or drawing before it is released. Secure yours early!
Buy at the Event
Lanterns will be available for purchase right at the festival gates on the evening of the event — no advance order required.
Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure yours.
Buy in Person
Pick up your lantern at any of these locations before the event:
- •Mount Washington Cruises Gift Shop (Weirs Beach)
- •Hart's Turkey Farm
- •Ames Farm Inn
- •Lakes Region Tourism Association Office
- •New Hampshire Boat Museum
- •Gusto's Italian Market
A limited number of lanterns will also be available for purchase at the festival gates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Decoration Stations
All summer long, guests aboard the M/S Mount Washington can purchase and decorate their lantern right on the cruise — a perfect way to prepare for the festival while enjoying the lake!
Decorating stations will also be available at the festival grounds on the evening of the event.
🌿 To protect the pristine waters of the Big Lake, we provide only beeswax or soy based crayons at our decorating stations. If you decorate at home, please use these products to help us keep Winni clean! Please note that items that use paints, stickers, glitter or glue will not be allowed to float.
Plan Your Visit
The legendary M/S Mount Washington will be open dockside throughout the evening. Step aboard the Winnipesaukee Flagship to enjoy:
Food & Beverage
Enjoy full bar service and delicious lakeside fare aboard the M/S Mount Washington, with menus featuring seasonal favorites and New England classics.
Prefer to stay shoreside? Explore a rotating lineup of local food trucks serving up smash burgers, chicken fingers, fried dough, and everything in between right on the festival grounds.
Food Trucks
Already Attended?
Find Your Lantern Photo
Enter the unique code from your lantern kit to view and download your photo.
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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