The seven-week event hosted more than 216,000 visitors from 50 U.S. states and territories and 6 foreign countries

Cary, NC (February 6, 2023)—The numbers are in, and the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival continues to set new records. This year the event welcomed more than 216,000 visitors and generated more than $7.36 million in direct economic impact according to figures released by the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Raleigh). For a seventh year Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre was home to the festival which was open daily from November 18, 2022- January 8, 2023.

“Since our inaugural event in 2015, the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival has experienced robust year-over-year growth in both numbers and reach,” says Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor of Cary. “Astonishingly, the festival drew visitors from all 100 counties in North Carolina, plus visitors from 50 U.S. states and territories and six foreign countries. Considering this type of visitation, it is obvious this festival is not only a beloved arts event for Cary, but also a signature arts event for the State and broader region.”

The $7.36 million generated by the festival is up from $5.54 million the previous year. It is important to note this number is a conservative estimate and does not include spending from local Wake County attendees, nor does it include a multiplier of indirect or induced impacts. It represents tourism economic impact only, which is new money coming into the local economy.

Over the seven-week run, visitors came out nightly to see the magnificently crafted lanterns, each one comprised of meticulously fused metal and hand-painted silks, illuminated from within by thousands of LED lights.

Tianyu Arts & Culture, the leading producer of lantern festivals in North America and partner in the Cary event, is excited how the festival continues to grow each year. "We feel a great sense of pride producing the festival in Cary, because it has such outstanding community and statewide support. It is the model of success for our partnerships with forward-thinking communities," said Ai Luo, vice president, Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. "We're excited to return for our eighth year this fall with all-new lantern displays that will amaze visitors."

The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival will return to Koka Booth Amphitheatre with all new lanterns in November.

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About Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.
Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. is renowned worldwide for creating entertaining lantern and light festivals in U.S. cities and globally. The company produces beautiful light displays, festivals and exhibits in zoos, botanical gardens, fairgrounds and public spaces. Tianyu Arts & Culture is the Chicago-based American subsidiary of international design and manufacturing company Sichuan Tianyu, headquartered in the lantern-making capital of the world, Zigong, China. http://tianyuculture.us