WESTWEGO – The Winter Lantern Festival is headed to the greater New Orleans area with a display of handmade, traditional Chinese lanterns. Opening Friday, Nov. 14, and then running Thursdays to Sundays through Jan. 4, 2026, guests of all ages can experience the festival’s luminescent night walk and show-stopping entertainment. Pre-sale tickets are now on sale.
Details include:
- Location: Bayou Segnette State Park – 7777 Westbank Expy, Westwego, LA 70094
- Days: Thursdays – Sundays – Nov. 14 – Jan. 4, 2026
- Times: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., with the last entrance at 9:30 p.m.
Visitors will step into an escape with hundreds of Chinese lanterns made of modern LED lights combined with traditional hand-crafted lantern frames made from small pieces of Chinese silk cloth and steel wire. Each handmade artisan piece holds a story of its own with depictions of Chinese legends and lore, as well as the beauty of nature. It’s the perfect outing for date nights, family outings, or peaceful evening strolls.
“New Orleans is full of culture and new adventures around every corner, so we knew it would be the perfect setting to have the Winter Lantern Festival call home this year,” said Yu Wang, chief artist of Kaleido Arts & Entertainment Group. “Our goal is to bridge east and west, bringing traditional Chinese culture to the Big Easy. We can’t wait to brighten up the holiday season and the start of the new year with a magical experience intertwined with history that the whole family will enjoy.”
Attendees can also enjoy live entertainment by the Zigong Acrobatic Troupe. The circus group has traveled the world and will perform incredible show stopping acts including juggling, balancing, face-changing and more. Guests can also stop by on-site vendors, play games, shop for keepsakes and enjoy food and drink.
“We’re so excited to welcome the Winter Lantern Festival to Bayou Segnette State Park,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, whose office oversees Louisiana’s state parks. “One-of-a-kind events like this are what make Louisiana so special – where families can gather, enjoy incredible art and culture, and make lasting memories. It’s another shining example of how Louisiana continues to light up the holidays and create unforgettable experiences for visitors and locals alike.”
Ticket prices start at $18. To buy tickets or to learn more, please visit the Winter Lantern Festival website.