Winter Solstice Lantern Festival 2025 in Vancouver

Sunday, December 21, 2025
Yaletown • Granville Island • Indoor Labyrinths • Music • Fire Performances

Welcome the return of the light on the longest night of the year at Vancouver’s beloved Winter Solstice Lantern Festival, now in its 32nd year. Presented by the Secret Lantern Society, this magical community celebration invites people of all ages to come together with lanterns, light, music, and warmth to honour the turning of the seasons.

This annual solstice gathering transforms neighbourhoods into glowing, shimmering worlds — reminding us that even in darkness, we can create light together.

Festival Locations & Neighbourhood Celebrations

The festival features simultaneous celebrations in two iconic Vancouver neighbourhoods, each offering unique performances, workshops, lantern parades, and fire finales.

🏮 Yaletown Celebration

Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre
Address: 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver
Learn More: Roundhouse Event Page
https://www.roundhouse.ca/event/winter-solstice-lantern-festival/

🏮 Granville Island Celebration

False Creek Community Centre
Address: 1318 Cartwright Street, Vancouver
Learn More: Granville Island Community Page
https://falsecreekcc.ca/winter-solstice-lantern-festival/

Both locations typically feature:

• Lantern-making workshops

• Live music and drumming

• Shadow puppetry & storytelling

• Roaming performers and costumed dancers

• Community lantern processions

• Outdoor fire performances (weather permitting)

Detailed schedules for each venue will be released in early November 2025.

🔥 Labyrinth of Light Experience (Signature Event)

A highlight of the festival is the Labyrinth of Light — a stunning, hand-created indoor candlelit labyrinth that offers a quiet, reflective moment. Walk slowly, breathe deeply, and experience a meditative journey through flickering pathways of warmth and beauty.

Labyrinth location and ticket details will be announced closer to the festival date.

🎇 Why the Festival Matters

This event is powered by the Secret Lantern Society, an artist-run nonprofit dedicated to cultural celebration, creativity, and community unity.

Due to recent funding cuts affecting many arts organizations, the festival is facing significant financial strain.
If you cherish this event and want to see it continue, you can help.

🌟 Support the Festival

Donate any amount to help keep the lights shining:
https://www.secretlantern.org/annual-winter-solstice-lantern-festival

Every lantern, every song, every shared moment contributes to the collective glow.

🗓 Event Overview (2025)

🌙 Bring the Light With You

• Make or bring a lantern (battery or candle-powered)

• Dress warmly — much of the festival happens outdoors

• Consider walking or transit (parking is limited)

• Bring kindness and a spirit of celebration ✨

🎄 Discover More Holiday Events in Metro Vancouver

Explore the full season guide → https://vancouver.christmas