If your summer calendar could use a little magic, this mesmerising event might be just the ticket. For two sparkly evenings this February – Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 – the Lakeside Lawn at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan will be transformed into a shimmering field of light thanks to the return of the beloved Water Lantern Festival.
From 5pm, gates will open to a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with food trucks, live music and plenty of space to sprawl out on a picnic rug. As the sun dips lower, guests will be invited to decorate their own eco-friendly lantern – writing messages, drawing symbols or illustrating moments of hope, healing, love or gratitude. Some mark milestones or personal wins, others honour memories or simply set intentions for what’s next.
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As twilight settles in, the experience will reach its emotional peak. From 8pm, hundreds of softly glowing lanterns will be released onto the water, creating a moving, almost meditative spectacle as they drift across the lake. Each lantern is made from biodegradable materials and collected after the event, ensuring the garden’s precious environment remains protected.
The Water Lantern Festival is an alcohol-free and deliberately inclusive event, making it a perfect summer outing for families. Visitors are encouraged to bring a camping chair or blanket, along with sunscreen, bug spray and weather-appropriate clothing – this is very much an outdoors, stay-a-while kind of affair.
Whether you come for the visuals, the symbolism or simply the chance to unplug and be present, this is one of those rare events that manages to feel both intimate and communal at the same time. Expect a beautiful crowd, a calm atmosphere and a lake lit with hundreds of floating reminders to step back and enjoy life for all its beauty.
The event will take over the Lakeside Lawn, Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan from 5pm until 9pm on Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22. Early bird tickets start at $39 per person, and kids under 8 can attend for free.
Keen? You can learn more and book tickets over here.
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