UPDATE: The North Carolina Chinese Lantern was supposed to go until January 14, 2024, but had to close as of January 11 because of storm damage to the exhibits. Two of the festival’s largest lanterns, the palace exhibit and the dragon boat, were damaged, and wouldn’t be able to be fixed in time.
If you have bought tickets, you’ll receive an email with refund options.
The decision comes as Festival engineers completed their thorough evaluations of the lantern displays and it was apparent that some of the larger, signature displays suffered severe structural damage from the storms earlier this week. Engineers concluded that proper repairs could not be completed in time before the Festival’s scheduled conclusion.
“Our heart breaks for those who had plans to attend the Festival in its final few days,” said William Lewis, Cary’s Cultural Arts Manager. “Public safety is paramount, and we appreciate the careful analysis and thoughtful conversations with all stakeholders in making this joint decision. It’s a reminder that these grand outdoor art exhibits are ephemeral, and we enjoy and appreciate them while they are here.”
Koka Booth Amphitheatre
The North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival is returning to Koka Booth Amphitheatre, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary, in 2023.
The festival will run from November 17, 2023, to January 14, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each evening. From Tuesday to Sunday evenings (but not on holidays), the Twilight Ticket Experience will get you in at 4:30 p.m.
The popular holiday event will feature all new displays and enhanced programming.
Any night tickets offer the greatest flexibility, but also cost the most. They are $25 per person for ages 3 and older. Children 2 and under are admitted free and do not need a ticket.
Date Specific Tickets to the Chinese Lantern Festival
- Friday, Saturday and holidays: $20 for adults if you buy in advance, and $15 in advance for kids ages 3-12
- Sunday to Thursday: $16 for adults if you buy in advance and $11 in advance for kids ages 3-12
- Tickets are more at the gate.
Discounts
- Seniors (age 55+), military, and college students pay $13 in advance, or $15 the night of the visit. Sunday to Thursday only.
- Groups of 20 more can get a discounted rate Sunday to Thursday, but not from holidays and a black out period from December 18 to January 1. Email groups@boothamp.com for information.
Sensory Friendly Night
Wednesday, December 6, 2023, is Sensory Friendly Night. On this night the music will be quieter, capacity will be decreased, and there will be no strobe or flashing lights. There will be a quiet area available to decompress.
More to know about North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
- The festival is rain or shine
- No refunds or exchanges
- “Any night” tickets can be used only once
- The walkways are paved and are wheelchair accessible.
- Venue concession stands will be selling a variety of food, beverages and holiday treats
Learn more and purchase tickets.
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