Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Great Baltimore Lantern Parade & Dia de Los Muertos Festival
Thousands of glowing lanterns illuminating Patterson Park
About
Baltimore's beloved Great Halloween Lantern Parade & Festival returns to Patterson Park for a night of community, art, and light. The day kicks off with a family festival, including a kids costume contest, hands-on lantern making, and a vibrant arts and crafts market. As dusk falls, the park transforms into a magical spectacle with a dazzling lantern parade featuring glowing floats, mythical creatures, and thousands of participants marching together. It's a truly enchanting experience for all ages.
Our Take
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, community members, art enthusiasts
Vibe
Magical, festive, community-oriented, creative
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Family festival with kids costume contest
- Lantern making workshops
- Arts and crafts market
- Thousands of participants in the lantern parade
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
FREE
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 and The Friends of Patterson Park
Practical Information
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.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed
Food & Drink
Food trucks and local food vendors available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to enjoy the family festival activities, including lantern making and the kids costume contest, before the parade begins.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax and enjoy food from local vendors during the afternoon festival.
- Consider bringing a reusable lantern or glow sticks to join the parade if you don't create one at the festival.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the event transitions from afternoon festival to evening parade.
- Utilize the available street parking or public transportation options, as the paid lot can fill up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Great Baltimore Lantern Parade & Festival?
The festival begins at 4:00 PM, with parade line-up at 6:30 PM and the parade starting at 7:00 PM on Saturday, October 25, 2025.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, the event is free for everyone to attend.
What activities are available for families?
Families can enjoy a kids costume contest, lantern making workshops, pop-up performances, and an arts and crafts market.
Where is the parade route?
The parade takes place within Patterson Park, with a specific route detailed on their event map.
What are the parking options?
There is unmetered street parking around the park, and limited paid parking is available in a nearby lot for $10.
