2026 Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival

April 16th – June 21st, 2026 | Thursday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Buy Tickets Now

Join us for the 2026 Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival, an all new show filled with all new lanterns. As night falls, the Gardens glow with more than 40 towering, handcrafted light sculptures that transform the landscape into a vivid world of color and scale. Inspired by traditional Chinese lantern artistry and brought to life with modern design, dazzling plants, animals, and imaginative creatures illuminate every path. Interactive displays invite you to move, play, and step into the experience. Explore the Gardens after dark and discover an unforgettable night of light, energy, and wonder for all ages, with stunning photo moments at every turn.

Plan Your Visit

• We are encouraging guests to purchase tickets online in advance. Limited on-site ticket sales will be available, and an additional $8 per ticket charge will apply for purchases at the door.  Flex tickets provide added flexibility, allowing guests to attend on any show night. They are available for an additional $10 per ticket. Children 4 and under will be charged $2.
• Tickets are non-refundable.
• Group rates are not available.
• General admission (daytime) and Lantern Festival (evening) tickets are sold separately. No combined ticket option.
• Thursday–Sunday during the Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival, Gardens close from 4:00–5:00 PM. Last daytime general admission ticket sold at 3:00 PM.
• Parking is complimentary. Allow extra time for parking and entry.
• Wheelchairs ($20) and wagons ($6) available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Snacks, beer and wine available. The Magnolia Café serves hot evening meals nightly from 5:00–8:00 PM.
• Gift Shop open until 9:00 PM. Members receive 10% off with a valid membership card at checkout.
• Gnats and mosquitoes can be present in warm, humid Gulf Coast weather. Bring bug spray.