A big Floating Lantern Festival returns this March to the Tampa Bay region. The event will take place on March 15 and 16 at 17951 Hamilton Rd in Dade City, Florida. From noon to 10 p.m. on both days, guests can enjoy a variety of activities, food, and entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere, according to event organizers. The festivities are put together by Saigon Night Market, a group beloved for its sprawling food festivals hosted throughout St. Pete, Clearwater, and Tampa.
A festival highlight is the Flying Lantern Ceremony, which will occur each night at 8 p.m. Hundreds of lanterns will light up the night sky, each carrying the hopes and wishes of festivalgoers. Whether lighting a lantern yourself or simply enjoying the mesmerizing display, the ceremony promises a “moment of magic” for all who attend.
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Floating lanterns and food festival fun in Dade City
In addition to the lantern ceremony, visitors can sample food from over 100 authentic Asian food vendors. The festival will also feature rides, games, and entertainment for all ages.
Sustainability is a key focus of the event. According to the Saigon Night Market team, the lanterns are designed to be environmentally friendly. After the festival, a dedicated team will collect and properly dispose of the lanterns to prevent harm to the environment and wildlife.
For those planning to attend, safety is a priority. Attendees are asked to handle the lanterns with care and supervise children at all times. Lanterns should only be used in designated areas, and festival staff will provide instructions to help avoid fire hazards. Please note that activities may be delayed or canceled due to unsafe weather conditions, and participants assume responsibility for their own safety.
Tickets range from $6-$22.50 and can be reserved in advance online.
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