Annual Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival returns for the year of the snake

The return of the 200-foot-long dragon returns to Philadelphia for the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square from June 20 through August 31, 2025. The event is open from 6 to 11 p.m. daily; however, it is important to note that the event is not open on July 4. 

The Festival will be at Franklin Square at 6th and Race Street. 

Alongside the dragon, there will be never-before-seen lantern displays, with more lights and lanterns than ever before. The event will include more than 1,100 individual sculptures in almost 40 groupings.

The Festival will embark event goers on a magical adventure through forest-themed displays and an underwater realm. 

Since late May, artists have been working on constructing lanterns in Franklin Square, welding, lighting, wrapping, and hand painting each of the lanterns. 

Of course, the fun does not end there. In addition to the displays, event goers will have the opportunity to experience Chinese culture through live stage performances and Chinese folk crafts. But again, the fun continues with the fountain light show in the historic Rendell Family Fountain. Goers can also play a quick round at the Philly Mini Golf and ride the Parx Liberty Carousel at a discounted price. 

Stage performance at the Festival (Credit: Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival)

 

If you are looking for a bite to eat and a drink to sip on, this is the place to be. The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square offers food and drink options, including Asian cuisine and American comfort food, and the Cocktail Garden. 

Folk Artist and Cocktail Garden area at the Festival. (Credit: Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival)

 

A portion of the Festival's proceeds will go towards Historic Philadelphia, Inc. for the programming and care of the public space that hosts many free events year round. 

It is important to note that Franklin Square will be fully accessible during regular daytime hours and the lanterns will be visible to see free of charge with the option of participating in a free scavenger hunt. The park will close daily at 5 p.m. to prepare for the nighttime Festival. 

Tickets

Beginning this year, the Festival is introducing the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival Pass, which allows visitors unlimited entry for the duration of the festival. The pass is $80 for adults with I.D. and $45 for children ages 3 to 13.

Early Bird tickets, through June 19, Monday through Thursday, cost $26 for adults, $16 for children ages 3-13 (2 and under are free), and $24 for seniors 65 and over and active military with ID..

Festival tickets, after June 20, Monday through Thursday, cost $27 for adults, $16 for children ages 3-13 (2 and under are free), and $25 for seniors 65 and over and active military with ID..

To purchase tickets, go to the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival website.