Imagine this: a serene body of water, softly illuminated by thousands of glowing lanterns, while calming music plays in the background. This isn’t a scene out of a movie or your favourite travel inspo account online; this is an actual event you can go to, here in London. The Water Lantern Festival, a captivating cultural experience reminiscent of the famous Chiang Mai lantern festival, Yi Peng, will return to London very soon.
This time around, there are two venues and three dates to choose from: on September 5, you can enjoy an evening of connection and reflection in Danson Park in Bexley, or on September 19 or 20, you can head to Clapham Common Park to see it transform into a galaxy of wishes. Whether you’re honouring loved ones or having a romantic evening, the Water Lantern Festival provides a space for self-expression and connection. What message will you send out onto the water?
5 September 2026 19:30 + more dates
What can you expect at the Water Lantern Festival?
During this enchanting celebration, you are invited to decorate your lanterns with hopes, dreams, memories, or messages. As the sun sets, these personalised lanterns are released onto the water, creating a stunning and emotional display. Plus, a perfect photo opportunity!
Be sure to bring along the little ones, too, as there are a variety of child-friendly experiences, making it a perfect family outing. The Water Lantern Festival will be filled with local food trucks, live music, and other activities. All are bringing thousands of families, friends, and strangers to celebrate life together.
Why is this event so special?
This is more than just a visual show for families and couples; the festival shines a light on community and charity dedicated to creating a positive environmental and social impact. The Water Lantern Festival partners with charities and non-profit organisations, including Water.org, dedicated to providing safe water globally. The goal is to raise awareness, offer donation opportunities, and build strong relationships with local institutions.
To keep things extra sustainable, even the lanterns are made from sustainable materials, featuring rice paper covers and wooden bases. While LED candles are reused and recycled whenever possible.
Where and when will it take place?
This is a bucket-list experience you’ll talk about for years – and you don’t even have to hop on a plane to be a part of it. This September, the Water Lantern Festival will light up both Danson Park and Clapham Common Park, creating multiple opportunities to enjoy an evening of dreams and storytelling.
To find Danson Park, you can hop on a train to Welling Station or Bexleyheath Station, each is about a 20-minute walk from the park or a short 5-10 minute bus journey.
You can easily get to Clapham Common via the Northern Line on the Tube, with stations at both the north (Clapham Common) and south (Clapham South) ends of the park. Alternatively, numerous bus routes stop directly at the park, or you can take a train to Clapham High Street or Clapham Junction and then walk or catch a short bus ride. Just follow the light and head over.
With over 150 events hosted across the world annually, the Water Lantern Festival prides itself on celebrating each community it serves, collaborating with local businesses and charities to showcase unique flavours, talents, and causes. Every lantern tells a story, leaving you inspired and connected to something bigger than yourself.
Water Lantern Festival – London
5 September 2026 19:30 + more dates
