The Great Baltimore Lantern Parade & Dia de los Muertos Festival
Baltimore comes alive with the Great Baltimore Lantern Parade & Dia de los Muertos Festival. This beloved event features a family festival with lantern making, a kids costume contest, and local food trucks. As dusk falls, a breathtaking parade of glowing floats and lanterns illuminates Patterson Park, inviting everyone to join the magical procession.
What to Expect
Community-created lanterns and floats in a magical night parade.
Event Details
Duration
Festival starts at 4:00 PM, Parade line-up at 6:30 PM, Parade at 7:00 PM
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Patterson Park
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Creative Alliance
Food & Drink
Food trucks and local food vendors available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, community members, art enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented, creative
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- Parking: Unmetered street parking is available around Creative Alliance. Limited paid parking ($10) is available in the lot on East Avenue across from The Patterson Theater, behind Apex Counseling Center.
- Accessibility: The first floor, including the main gallery, performance/theater space, bar, and bathrooms, is wheelchair accessible. Resident artist studios and the Amalie Rothschild Gallery are on the second floor and accessible by elevator. Attendees with accessibility concerns should contact the Box Office in advance.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to enjoy the family festival activities, including lantern making and the costume contest, before the parade begins.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax and enjoy the food trucks and performances during the afternoon festival.
- Consider bringing your own lantern or purchasing one to join the parade and be part of the glowing spectacle.
- Check the parade map in advance to find the best viewing spots along the route through Patterson Park.
- Dress in layers as the event transitions from afternoon festival to an evening parade, and temperatures may change.
Special Events & Promotions
- Kids & Family Costume Contest: Registration begins at 3:30pm, contest at 4:00pm.
- Support the Parade: Donations accepted via Venmo.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Creative Alliance open?
The Patterson Building is open Tuesday-Saturday from Noon to 5 PM, and one hour prior to any performance, class, or event. The Creativity Center is open one hour prior to any class or program.
Where should I park?
Unmetered street parking is available. Limited paid parking ($10) is available in the lot on East Avenue across from The Patterson Theater, behind Apex Counseling Center.
What is the configuration of the theater seating?
Seating varies by performance; it can be fully seated, fully standing, or a combination. Contact the Box Office for specific seating arrangements or accommodations.
Do you offer any refunds or exchanges?
All sales are final and non-refundable unless the event is canceled. Tickets may be exchanged no less than 24 hours before an event, subject to price differences and potential fees.
Are the performances and programs all ages?
Yes, Creative Alliance is an all-ages venue, though some events may contain content appropriate only for audiences 18+.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.