Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square

The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival in Franklin Square (May 9 – June 11) is a celebration of light and culture that features artisans from China creating magnificent steel-framed and silk-wrapped giant animals, springtime flowers and trees, and symbols of Chinese culture using traditional Chinese methods. For five weeks, Franklin Square will glow with 29 larger-than-life illuminated lantern displays of 1,500 individual sculptures with more than 15,000 LED lights in brilliant colors. The giant fan favorite Chinese Dragon (newly rebuilt) returns, but all of the other displays will be new for the 2017 Festival. In addition to the gorgeous light installations, festival-goers will witness authentic cultural performances that are all new for 2017 such as acrobats and folk dancers. Visitors can taste Asian cuisine and American favorites, drink a toast at the Dragon Beer Garden, and shop for artists’ creations crafted on site. Guests will still be able to play Philly Mini Golf, ride the Parx Liberty Carousel, and enjoy Center City’s best play place. The proceeds that Historic Philadelphia receive from the Festival will go into the operation and management of Franklin Square and its many free events all year long.

Franklin Square is an initiative of Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI). HPI makes our nation’s history relevant and real through interpretation, interaction, and education, strengthening Greater Philadelphia’s role as the destination to experience American history. Historic Philadelphia, Inc.’s programs include the Betsy Ross House, Once Upon A Nation storytelling and immersive walking tours, and Franklin Square. For all Historic Philadelphia, Inc. event information, call 215-629-4026, or visit www.historicphiladelphia.org to buy tickets online.