Chinese Lantern Festival returns to Franklin Square in Philadelphia in 2025 with exciting attractions and activities to enjoy.

The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival is set to return to Franklin Square from June 20 to August 31, 2025, excluding July 4, as a celebration of the Year of the Snake. This beloved event will showcase intricate illuminated displays, cultural performances, and will feature a remarkable 200-foot-long dragon, providing attendees with an immersive experience of Chinese heritage and artistry.

The festival will take place at Franklin Square, situated at the intersection of Sixth and Race Streets. The park opens its gates daily at 6 p.m. and remains open until 11 p.m., although it will close at 5 p.m. each day for event preparations. The venue is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the festivities.

Those interested in attending should be advised of ticketing details. Tickets can be purchased online, and timed-entry tickets are mandatory for visits on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with no re-entry permitted once inside the festival grounds. Ticket prices vary by day, offering a structured payment system: Monday through Thursday, adult tickets are priced at , while seniors (65+) and military personnel can enjoy a discounted rate of ; Friday through Sunday, ticket prices increase slightly to for adults and for seniors and military. Children aged 3 to 13 can attend for , while entrance remains free for children aged 2 and under. A new feature introduced this year is the unlimited entry pass, available for for adults and for children.

Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with glowing lanterns and captivating light installations. The Rendell Family Fountain will host nightly water shows set to the Chopstick Brothers’ popular tune “Little Apple,” occurring at multiple intervals throughout the evening. Live performances will feature acrobats and Sichuan opera on three stages, with shows scheduled at 7:30 p.m., 9 p.m., and 10:15 p.m. Cultural demonstrations, including dumpling-making and traditional Qigong classes, will provide guests with unique interactive experiences.

A diverse array of food and beverage vendors will enhance the festival experience, offering Asian-inspired dishes and other culinary delights. Participating vendors such as Oishii, Sang Kee, and Chickie’s & Pete’s will serve a variety of options, including fusion dumplings and an assortment of beer, wine, and cocktails, all of which accept cash and credit cards.

Public transportation options to reach Franklin Square include SEPTA bus routes 17, 33, and 48, with metro connections providing convenience. For those driving, parking reservations can be secured via the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival SpotHero Parking Page, and limited metered parking is available nearby.

Ticket sales from the festival support Historic Philadelphia, the nonprofit organization responsible for maintaining Franklin Square and hosting year-round events at the park. This initiative not only celebrates cultural diversity but also contributes to the ongoing preservation and enhancement of the historical site.

Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in this enchanting celebration that combines artistry, culture, and community spirit, making it a must-see event this summer.