2026 Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

SAVE THE DATE: April 16th – June 21st, 2026

Tickets go on sale March 1, 2026

TIME: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Thrusday – Sunday

Join us for the Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival as Bellingrath Gardens & Home transforms into a breathtaking display of light and artistry. As night falls, the Gardens will turn into a luminous dreamscape, where 40 towering, handcrafted light sculptures glow with vibrant colors, lighting the landscape with interactive artistry and imagination. Visitors will journey through the estate, where each glowing display tells a story through plants, animals, and fantastical creatures, blending ancient tradition with modern innovation. Many displays invite interaction—dance with vibrant figures, play games, and immerse yourself in the fun.

What to Expect

As you explore, you’ll find endless opportunities for photos and laughter with awe-inspiring moments that will stay with you long after the night ends. Bring your whole family, invite your friends, and be part of this extraordinary festival—because some experiences are too wonderful to miss.

Plan Your Visit

• Save the Date: April 16 – June 21, 2026 | Thursday – Sunday
• Time: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
• We are encouraging guests to purchase tickets online in advance. Limited on-site ticket sales will be available. Tickets go on sale March 1, 2026
• General admission tickets and Lantern Festival tickets are sold separately—there is no combined ticket option.
• Bellingrath Gardens will close from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Thursday through Sunday during the Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival, with the last general admission ticket sold at 3:00 PM. General admission tickets for daytime entry and Lantern Festival tickets for the evening are sold separately. Please note that there is no combined ticket option available.
• The Magnolia Café is open nightly from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.
• With the warm, humid Gulf Coast weather, gnats and mosquitoes can be a challenge, so we recommend bringing bug spray.