13th Annual Firelight Lantern Festival

The Department of Illumination lights up the night with the 13th annual Firelight Lantern Festival, a cherished Prince Edward County tradition since 2013! Two magical evenings of arts and music will unfold at the Crystal Palace in Picton, Ontario. This year’s theme: PLAY! Think music, games, sports, toys, and dress-up!

Friday, November 7th, 2025 ~ 7  PM to Midnight (19+)

Experience the art party of the year! Dance the night away to DJ LeeLee Michi. Spinning deep, jazz-infused house and minimal techno, she’s played epic events such as Burning Man and Promise Cherry Beach. Encounter playful installations from DOI artists. an illuminated performance from North Fire Circus, and as always, a few creative surprises throughout the evening.

Saturday, November 8th, 2025 ~ 6-11 PM

It’s an all-ages magical extravaganza!
– 6 PM – Gather at Benson Park. Giant puppets, handmade lanterns and a performance by The Aurora Borealis Community Choir.
– 7 PM – Parade departs towards the Crystal Palace accompanied by Spencer Evans & the Goat Steppers.
– 7:30-8:30 PM – Kids craft with Sharon Hart inside the Crystal Palace
– 7:40 PM- Fire show by North Fire Circus outside Crystal Palace
– 8:30 PM – My Son the Hurricane – Main Stage Crystal Palace. My Son the Hurricane is a multi-horn, multi-drummer, multi-singer brass funk band bringing their massive musical energy all the way from Niagara. Get ready to have your socks knocked off!

What to wear: Dress up in whatever wild and wonderful costume you wish – especially if it’s illuminated!
What to bring: A lantern! Come to a lantern-making workshop or buy a kit! Our handmade lanterns will also be for sale at Kelly’s Shop starting November 1, while supplies last.
Eat & drink: Both evenings are licensed inside the Crystal Palace; bar service by County Cider Co. and Kaleidoscope Catering is serving from their food truck all night long.
PLEASE DONATE: The Lantern Parade and outdoor performances are all FREE, however donations are greatly appreciated!

NEW! LOWER PRICES AND TICKETING SYSTEM FOR 2025!

Tickets for Friday, November 7th (19+) – All tickets just $20 (HST included). Buy wristbands at The Department of Illumination studio (lower level of The Armoury, 206 Main Street, Picton), or at Kelly’s Shop (cash preferred, 197 Main Street, Picton). Tickets available at the door while they last; no online tickets for Friday.

Tickets for Saturday, November 8th (all ages) – Adults $25, kids $5 (HST included). Get your wristbands in advance: skip the line-up AND save money! Wristbands available at The DOI Studio (lower level of The Armoury) & Kelly’s Shop (cash preferred, 197 Main Street, Picton).
Saturday tickets online or at door: $30 adults, $10 kids. Purchase tickets here.