As the sun sets over Sparks Marina, hundreds of glowing lanterns will take to the water, each carrying a message of hope, love, remembrance, or intention.
The Water Lantern Festival returns to Sparks on Saturday, Sept. 19, bringing people together for an evening of reflection, connection and community. Tickets are available at WaterLanternFestival.com.
Attendees can personalize their own lantern before releasing it onto the water at sunset. The festival is designed to offer a shared experience for families, couples, friend groups and individuals.
The evening will also include live music, local food vendors and activities for all ages, including yard games and a scavenger hunt.
This year, the festival is introducing its Radiant Tour, an expanded experience centered on joy, connection and personal reflection. The tour encourages guests to take part in guided moments and shared experiences before, during, and after the event.
“With the Radiant Tour, we wanted to create something that goes beyond a single evening,” said Nate Sorensen, Director of Events. “It’s about giving guests space to slow down, reflect, and truly connect with themselves and the people around them. At its core, we hope every person leaves feeling seen, valued, and reminded that they are radiant—and that even a small moment of intention can create a ripple that lasts long after the lanterns fade.”
Another part of the evening will be Lantern Stories, a dedicated space where guests can share personal reflections and honor loved ones through their lanterns.
Organizers also say environmental stewardship remains a key part of the festival. A dedicated cleanup team will remove all lanterns and materials after the event.
