Jamaica Pond Lantern Parade

Join us for Jamaica Pond's annual lantern parade. The ritual of the Jamaica Pond Lantern Parade began in 1984 when people gathered to make a journey with their candle-lit lanterns around Jamaica Pond. In preparation for the Lantern Parade, Spontaneous Celebrations and community members host lantern making workshops in which youth and adults of all ages create beautiful hand made lanterns from recycled soda bottles decorated with colorful tissue paper. The festival also involves local businesses who sell hand made lanterns in their shops. By the night of the festival, several thousand people have made lanterns (and anyone who hasn't can purchase one the night of the parade). Each year approximately 4,000 people arrive at Jamaica Pond at sunset with their lanterns; many children arriving in full Halloween costume as well. This beautiful autumn evening ceremony has become an annual tradition in our community. **This is a family, friendly event so please feel free to bring your children or grandchildren** I have never been to this parade before, but let's plan on meeting at the front entrance. I'll email my cell phone # to those who are coming. Also, you may want to bring a flashlight.