24.05.25
The Water Lantern Festival is a 'for-profit' event, but the organisation is proud to give back by supporting charities and non-profit organisations at their events.
The festival is an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate the present and find joy in the simple act of releasing a lantern. For many it is a meaningful way to remember loved ones or for some, the serene setting and release of the lantern, provides a unique space for emotional healing. It is hoped that this shared atmosphere of positivity will create a sense of community for family and friends.
Arriving at the waterfront at 4.30 pm, the small inlet was already surrounded by groups of relaxed families decorating their lanterns with the materials provided by the event organisers. It was a hushed but happy scene. The last sunrays of the day highlighted the white sails of the boats moored near by. Soon the horizon was filled with the golden glow of the setting sun. Then, as it sank a muted palette of pinks and blues created a sense of calm and quiet beauty.
Ticketing for the event covered the cost of this box of goodies - playing cards, cards of reflection and the equipment to create our floating lantern.
Waiting for the sun to set, we enjoyed sandwiches and a hot chocolate provided by Joc.
Serenity in the sunset glow.
At 5.30 the sunlight was fading and people began to float their lanterns. We decided to wait for darkness.
There was no rush to place our lanterns in the water. It was just so very special to watch the floating lights along the shoreline and the gentle rocking as they drifted with the sea's movement.
The delightful Jackson suddenly appeared shivering in front of us, offering to place our lanterns in the water. We happily accepted as now we wouldn't have to take our shoes off.
It was difficult to capture the beauty of the scene in the darkness. Joc has a Apple 15 so did well to calture these images.
My edited I-phone 8 images from where we were sitting.
It was a wonderful evening of gentle beauty and positivity in this too often sad world.
The inlet was cordoned off so that after we left, the organisers were able to leave the beach pristine.
I would love to read your comment.
Probably some idiot here would say it's a woke conspiracy. What a lovely time you must have had. I envy you.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great idea…a lovely way to enjoy serenity with others.
ReplyDeleteOh what a lovely event! The sight of all those lighted lanterns in the water looks amazing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful idea and event... and it must have been an unforgettable experience.
ReplyDeleteI would have been one of those that float the lantern already at sunset since for photos I prefer twilight to darkness. :)
Thank you for sharing these lovely images! xx
What a lovely event with lots of meaning I’m sure. Great photos B x
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely event! So romantic!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool festival, and a real photo opportunity with all those glowing lanterns. Beautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful and serene scene with all those floating lanterns! Beautiful - both aesthetically and emotionally!
ReplyDeleteA Water Lantern Festival sounds absolutely magical! There's something so incredibly serene and beautiful about seeing all those glowing lanterns drifting across the water, each carrying hopes and dreams. It's truly a unique and memorable experience that brings people together in such a peaceful and visually stunning way. Nursing Schools San Diego California
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