Milwaukee is in for a treat this fall!
Last year, our family visited the incredible China Lights festival at Boerner Botanical Gardens, and we were blown away! The vibrant lanterns, intricate displays, and beautiful gardens lit up at night left us in awe. The crowds were large, but it was worth it.
This year, China Lights is back with the “Year of the Dragon” theme, and it’s set to be even more breathtaking.
The festival kicks off this Friday, September 13th, and runs through October 27th, 2024. One of the main highlights this year is a massive new dragon making its U.S. debut, housed in the stunning Palace of Heaven display, which towers at 48 feet tall!
Along the three-quarter mile route, you’ll encounter over 40 larger-than-life lanterns, including zodiac-themed lanterns, a glowing flower tunnel, and the adorable dragon mascot, LongLong, who pops up throughout the show.
This year, there are even more interactive activities, especially for kids, with enhanced playground areas. If you have little ones, they’ll love getting hands-on with the lanterns!
In addition to the lanterns, live performances take place each night on the We Energies stage, showcasing traditional Asian folk arts. You’ll also find plenty of delicious food and beverage options throughout the gardens so you can enjoy a snack under the lantern-lit sky.
The show run September 15th through October 29th, and tickets are now on sale.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your visit, plan ahead! The festival opens at 5:00 p.m. each night, and tickets are available online in three time slots (5:00, 6:30, or 8:00 p.m.). We highly recommend buying tickets in advance, as walk-up tickets are limited and more expensive. Weekday tickets are $23 for adults and $16 for children, while weekend prices are $28 for adults and $18 for kids. Infants under three get in for free!
Parking Details
The closest paid parking lot is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are also free parking lots throughout Whitnall Park, with complimentary shuttles running from the outer lots. We found the shuttles to be super convenient, and they run from 6:30-10:30 p.m.
Don’t Miss It!
If you’ve never been to China Lights, you’re in for a treat. The festival is a spectacular celebration of Asian culture and a perfect family-friendly outing.
For more details and tickets, visit ChinaLights.org.
We can’t wait to go back!
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.