Deering Oaks
Portland, ME 04101
USA
THE PORTLAND LANTERN WALK
Where Art Illuminates CommunitY
The Portland Lantern Walk is more than an event; it celebrates community, culture, and creativity. Our mission is to light the way for a brighter, more connected, and culturally enriched Portland, where every lantern represents a story and every participant is a cherished member of our diverse and vibrant family.
Illuminate the Night: We bring light to the darkness symbolically and literally by encouraging participants to craft and carry lanterns of their own design. These radiant lanterns transform our public park into a mesmerizing spectacle, sparking wonder and introspection.
Cultivate Togetherness: We aim to bridge divides and nurture a sense of belonging among all members of our community. We celebrate our differences and find strength in our shared humanity by gathering people from different backgrounds.
Honor Tradition and Innovation: We respect lantern festival traditions while embracing innovation in design and creativity. Participants blend old and new techniques, creating an ever-evolving event that changes each year in response to our shared experiences.
Support Local Arts and Culture: We provide a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents, enriching our city’s cultural ecosystem. We foster an environment that values and nurtures the arts.
Promote Sustainability: We are committed to environmental responsibility and encourage using sustainable materials in lantern-making. We also promote responsible disposal practices to preserve our natural surroundings.
Create Lasting Memories: The Portland Lantern Walk aims to create enduring memories for participants of all ages. It’s an annual tradition that brings joy, inspiration, and wonder to our community.
The Portland Lantern Walk is a public art program that connects our community to one of the most inspired and precious green spaces in Portland, Maine: Deering Oaks Park.
Your tax-deductible donation allows us to produce this large scale community event along with multiple free, high quality lantern making workshops that are accessible to all ages, all abilities, all languages and cultures.
Help us keep this work going with a donation today!