Frequently Asked Questions
Good questions. Here are the answers.
THE BASICS
When and where is the festival?
The Mansfield Lantern Festival runs from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June 2026 in Mansfield, Victoria — at the foot of Mt Buller in the heart of the High Country.
Do I need a ticket?
The Saturday night festival and lantern parade is $5 per person. Tickets are available online – we recommend booking ahead as numbers are limited. The Friday night Food & Drink event and Sunday morning yoga session are separately ticketed. Lantern-making workshops are $5 and bookings are essential as they fill quickly.
What’s on across the weekend?
Head to our Events page for the full program. In short – a Welcome to Country and firelight ceremony, lantern workshops, a special dinner, winter solstice restaurant menus, the big Saturday night parade and festival, sunrise yoga and a Sunday brunch. There’s something for every part of the weekend.
THE PARADE
Where does the parade start?
The parade begins at the western end of town. Once you’ve registered, we’ll email you all the details. Please arrive with plenty of time – the parade steps off at 5:30pm sharp.
Do I need to bring my own lantern? Yes – you’ll need to bring a lantern to walk in the parade. If you haven’t made one, don’t worry. Mansfield Primary School P&F will have glow-in-the-dark products available to purchase on the night.
Can I bring an open flame lantern? No open flames in the parade, sorry – it’s a safety requirement and a non-negotiable one. If you arrive with an open flame, you’ll be asked to put it out.
What should I expect on the night? Lights, lanterns, open fires, live music, street performers, food and drink, and a parade that winds through the streets of Mansfield before finishing near the festival space. It’s a proper winter night out.
What else can I do during the weekend?
We’re updating the calendar as we go – with events and experiences from businesses in the Mansfield Shire. Stay tuned!
Weather
What if it rains? The festival goes ahead rain or shine — unless conditions become genuinely unsafe. Mansfield is cold in June. Dress warmly, bring a layer (or two) and pack an umbrella if the forecast looks wet. It’s all part of the High Country winter experience.
Stay up to date with alerts on the day via our Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Music
We are still confirming our music for our festival in 2026 – there will be some fabulous tunes for you to dance (or sway) to throughout the night.
Access
How do I get to Mansfield? Mansfield is around two and a half hours from Melbourne by car. V/Line runs coach services from Melbourne to Mansfield — a great option if you’d like to leave the driving to someone else and enjoy the festivities fully.
Where do I park? If you’re staying in town, we’d love for you to walk to the festival. If you need to drive, parking is available along Highett Street and near the Botanic Gardens. Please follow all parking signs and road closures to avoid fines.
What services are available for people with a disability?
The main festival on Saturday night is located on a hard, flat surface (road and carpark). The area can become busy and crowded so we advise you to have someone with you to assist movement through the area.
Additional events throughout the weekend will have their own access information. Please contact the business provider directly.
Dogs
Our festival is NOT the place for your to bring your dog. It’s really busy, we have lots of food vendors and it’s not a suitable space for your fur baby.
Accommodation
Should I make a weekend of it? Yes. Absolutely yes. Book a bed, explore the town, eat well and take your time. The High Country in winter is something special — and the festival is the perfect excuse to experience it properly. The Mansfield – Mt Buller Information Centre runs a booking service – you can jump online www.mansfieldmtbuller.com.au or call 03 5775 7000
Food & Drink
Is there food at the festival? Yes — we work with a carefully chosen group of food and beverage operators to bring you a delicious range of local produce, wine, craft beer and spirits. Our 2026 vendors will be listed on the Eat & Drink page as they’re confirmed.
I’m a food or drink vendor — how do I apply? Applications for food and beverage vendors are open via our Contact page. We focus on quality local produce and regional makers. We’re not looking for fairy floss, twisty potatoes or ice cream vendors — thanks for understanding.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
As a fully licensed venue, strictly no alcohol can be brought into the festival area.
Lanterns
Can I buy a lantern at the event?
You’ll need to bring your own lantern with you BUT Mansfield Primary School P & F will have glow in the dark products for purchase.
Why can’t I use a candle in my lantern?
Too many people and too high a risk for something to not go to plan. If you have an open flame, you will be asked to put it out. Bike lights make a great insert for your lantern.
Will you be running workshops so that I can make a lantern?
Yes! Keep an eye on our Events page for details on our workshops.
Everything else...
Can I bring my dog?
Pets of any kind are not permitted within the festival hub with the exception of guide dogs
Can I bring my camera?
Yes, you can – we’d love to see your photos. If you share, please use the hashtag #mansfieldlanterns
Are there any ATMs close by?
Yes – in High Street there are 3 ATMs available.
Festival Countdown
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