An encore performance of the Chinese Lantern Festival is lighting up the lagoon at the Fair Park in Dallas just in time for the holidays. The Festival, the first of its kind ever to be displayed in the American Southwest, wowed visitors during its first run during the State Fair, and now it is back for a second run from November 1-January 6.
The Festival features thousands of lanterns handmade in Texas by a group of 40 artisans from China. The collection of whimsical scenes were first crafted from steel frames and then covered with a rainbow of silk-like materials that offer a fanciful glow when illuminated.
The Festival focuses on Chinese myth and history, but there are American touches, like a gleaming statue of liberty situated like a island in the lagoon. There are also several nods to the host state, such as the field of Texas bluebonnets and a herd of longhorn cattle. Mixed among these decidedly American sculptures are Chinese relics such as the Temple of the Fairies and scenes of whimsy such as a parade of ants on holiday.
When illuminated, the lanterns create a wonderland feel that embodies a mystical element and a sense of tranquility for visitors as they stroll the loop around the brilliantly lighted lagoon.
Know Before You Go
When: Nov. 1-Jan. 6, 5-10 p.m. nightly
Where: Fair Park lagoon
Cost: Monday-Wednesday: $14 for adults, $9 for kids 4-12. Thursday-Sunday: $19 for adults, $14 for kids 4-12. For groups of 20 or more, call 214-928-7677 for discounted rates. Parking for $15 is available at gates 5 or 6.
Website: chineselanternfestival.com
~This post is a part of Budget Travelers Sandbox and R We There Yet Mom~
Beautiful photos and a great tip for the future's file.
I can see why it wowed everyone it is a fantastically colourful display.
WOW…that is gorgeous! This was at the State Fair? We didn't end up going this year.
It looks just beautiful…I wonder if there are any coupons floating around..
What fun! There is a small Chinese lantern festival here but nothing like this- would love to see this in person!
How fantastic! I had no idea that China had come to Dallas!
I would have never expected this in Dallas. It definitely looks like it's worth the drive from Austin. I hope they do it again in future years.
The festival lanterns are beautiful and I have to admit that I wouldn't have thought this was all happening in Dallas. Would love to see this in person.