Illuminating since 2015
Mansfield Lantern Festival
Join us as we celebrate the Winter Solstice with a luminous display of culture, community, and creativity.
The Heart of the Lantern Festival
The Mansfield Lantern Festival began as a small community gathering to honor the Winter Solstice, a time of reflection and renewal. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved tradition, attracting visitors from near and far. The festival is a vibrant celebration of light during the darkest days of winter.
From its humble beginnings, the Mansfield Lantern Festival has become a cornerstone of our town’s cultural calendar. Rooted in the ancient tradition of marking the Winter Solstice, the festival brings together people of all ages to share in the joy of light and warmth. It is a time to connect with one another, to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to the future with hope and optimism.
A Journey Through Light
2015
Inaugural Gathering
The first Mansfield Lantern Festival was held, bringing together a small group of locals to celebrate the Winter Solstice with handmade lanterns.
2019
A Peak of Light
Mansfield’s biggest festival yet — over 1,000 lanterns and locals filled the streets in one unforgettable night of warmth, wonder and community joy.
2020
Dark Night
With the world on pause, Mansfield’s lanterns stayed home. No festival, no parade – just a community holding on looking forward to the night we could gather again.
2021
Festival of Neons
The event you have when you can’t have an event. With gatherings still off the table, Mansfield swapped lanterns for neon – a scaled-back, socially-distanced celebration of light that kept the spirit alive until the real thing could return.
2022
The Return
The lanterns came back, and so did the people. After two quiet years, Mansfield’s streets filled with light once more – bigger crowds, brighter nights, and a community reminded of exactly why we do this.
2027
The Next Chapter
The Mansfield Lantern Festival lights up bigger and bolder than ever. New experiences, new traditions, same golden glow – join us for a weekend that celebrates just how far this festival has come.
Meet Our Dedicated "Team"
Behind the Mansfield Lantern Festival is Alli Walker – Festival Director, chief organiser, and the person making sure the festival returns every year. Alli is joined each year by a rotating crew of local volunteers, workers, artists and community partners who bring the festival to life. It genuinely takes a village – and Mansfield shows up every time.
Alli Walker
Festival Director
Exciting Festival Events
Lantern Parade
Join us for a mesmerizing procession of handcrafted lanterns illuminating the night sky.
19 June 2027
FREE
Live Music Performances
Enjoy captivating performances, adding rhythm to our winter celebration.
18 – 20 June 2027
COMING SOON
Night Market
Explore a vibrant market featuring unique crafts and delicious local treats.
19 June 2027
COMING SOON
Fires under the night sky
Our open fires keep you warm, lighting up the winter sky.
18 – 20 June 2027
COMING SOON
Join the Celebration
Be a part of the Mansfield Lantern Festival and light up the longest night of the year. Whether you’re eager to experience the magic, lend a helping hand, or support our cause, your participation makes a difference. Let’s illuminate the winter solstice together!