Cary, NC (January 12, 2026) — The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival wrapped up another dazzling season last night at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre, closing its gates after an unforgettable eight-week run that welcomed 249,360 guests—surpassing last year’s attendance by 183 and lighting up the holiday season with 22 sold-out nights.

 

Running from November 15, 2025, through early January, the beloved festival once again transformed the amphitheatre into a glowing wonderland of color, culture, and craftsmanship. Now celebrating its 10th year in Cary, the festival has become a cherished annual tradition since Tianyu Arts & Culture first brought the event to North Carolina in 2015.

 

This season drew visitors from all 50 states and eight countries, all eager to experience the breathtaking lantern displays—each one intricately constructed from hand-welded metal frames and hand-painted silks, then illuminated by thousands of LED lights to create larger-than-life works of art.

 

Beyond the visual spectacle, the festival also made a meaningful impact in the community, raising $7,014.61 for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and $7,659.49 for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina through online donations.

 

The magic isn’t over for long: the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival will return to Koka Booth Amphitheatre in November with an entirely new collection of lanterns, ready to shine once again.