The Luminosa Chinese Lantern Festival is happening in beautiful Miami at Jungle Island. The Chinese lantern festival takes place from October 5, 2019, through January 8, 2020. Every evening from 5 PM to 10 PM, the night sky comes alive with light from 13-acres of giant-sized lanterns, all of which are handcrafted. Silk lights in dazzling colors pay homage to tradition, as artists bring handcrafting to this festival.
What is the Luminosa Lantern Festival?
Jungle Island, a South Florida landmark in its own right, is a gorgeous site for the Luminosa festival. The festival takes part in a tradition that began over 2,000 years ago; the lanterns symbolize the return of spring, the future, letting go of the past, and the coming together of family. Over 1 million LED lights will light all of the lanterns; Chinese artisans handcraft each light out of vividly colored silk. This festival is part of a partnership with Zigong Lantern Group and China Lantern International and is filled with tradition and history.
While the Luminosa Lantern Festival represents several centuries of tradition, its stunning execution puts it right on par for the modern age. It’s regularly one of the most Instagrammable events in Miami. The stunning lights, breathtaking pageantry, and jungle setting make it an unforgettable experience that you’ll want to share with all of your friends and followers.
Right now, adult tickets are just $35 (plus tax and fees) and child tickets are $30 (plus tax and fees). Not bad! Plus, you can get an even better price if you order tickets online.
Dining Near Luminosa
From a quick bite at Subway to a more formal lunch or dinner on the deck, you can find a host of restaurants in the proximity of Jungle Island. At the Festival, you can have a sit-down meal at the Joia Beach Club or choose from one of the exciting food trucks that offer a host of different flavors, including Asian. Bars and cocktails are available within the park as well. The following are some popular restaurant choices in the area:
- At the Deck at Island Gardens, located on McArthur Causeway, you’ll choose from Italian, Mediterranean, French, Turkish and Greek fare.
- Chi, located at 105 NE 3rd Avenue, serves Peruvian cuisine and is vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
- Pollos & Jarras, located at 115 NE 3rd Avenue, is known for Peruvian, Latin, and Barbecue.
- If you’re in the mood for steak and seafood, try Toro Toro Restaurant & Bar, located at 100 Chopin Plaza.
- Another nearby choice is Niu Kitchen, located at 134 NE 2nd Avenue. Either Mediterranean or Spanish fare is the best call here.
More Things to Do in Miami
If you get to Miami and the Lantern Festival in October, it is still the off-season and there is much to do. You can take in clever design, unique art, fun events, and more. Some of the other things to do while you are in Miami include:
- Miami SeaQuarium
- Jungle Island
- Wynwood
- Port Miami/ South Beach
- Marlins Park
- American Airlines Arena
At the SeaQuarium, you’ll see dolphins, orcas, penguins, and more. Jungle Island Park, which is also an eco-adventure park, can be visited during the daytime hours for a totally different experience from the Luminosa Lantern Festival.
Find a Comfortable Place to Stay
The Hyatt Place Miami Airport-East offers a convenient location near the airport and is a little over 8 miles from Jungle Island and the Luminosa Lantern Festival. The Hyatt Place is among the choice hotels in Miami for travelers coming from out of town to the Lantern Festival.
If you’d rather stay in downtown Miami, YVE Hotel Miami is a hot choice. With a fun, contemporary vibe and a great location in the heart of Miami, it’s a great home base for urban exploration.
Don’t forget to take your camera, as there will be outstanding shots of color and shape against the night sky. Prepare to enjoy a spectacular event of magical light.
