News Release

Join Us for the Annual Lantern Parade

Saturday, November 18

November 8, 2023

It’s time to show off your creativity and brighten up the night at the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade on Saturday, November 18.

This cultural celebration brings together paraders carrying an array of vibrant lanterns and a sea of spectators along the coastline from South Forest Beach to Coligny Beach Park. Created by the renowned artist Chantelle Rytter, this energetic parade offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to revel in the rich history, ecology, and diverse people of Hilton Head Island. Here's all you need to know to enjoy this spectacular parade:

WHAT:      
The Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade, a free community event.

WHEN:   
The parade kicks off on Saturday, November 18, starting at 5:45 p.m. It all begins at South Forest Beach, with the lineup starting at 5 p.m. at the Alder Lane
Beach Access. The parade proceeds northward, making its way from South Forest Beach to Coligny Beach Park. The route continues through the Coligny Beach Park access and concludes at the Lowcountry Celebration Park.

PARKING:
To make your experience hassle-free, participants should park at the Coligny Beach Park or USCB parking lots. The Breeze Trolley will provide shuttles to transport participants to the Alder Lane Beach Access. For detailed parade logistics and a map, visit culturehhi.org. Please note that bikes, pets, and flaming/flying lanterns are not allowed in the parade.

ADVANCE HAPPENINGS:
If you'd like to assemble ahead of the parade's commencement, head over to Loggerhead Landing (located at the Marriott Grande Ocean – accessible via the Alder Beach Lane pathway) from 3 p.m. onwards. Enjoy face painting, live music by Darryl Van Horne, "The Sole Mate," and local vendor food offerings.

Food trucks and beverages will also be available at the Lowcountry Celebration Park, in partnership with the Island Rec Center, starting at 4 p.m.

WATCH THE PARADE:
Spectators can choose their perfect spot along the beach between Alder Lane and Coligny Beach Park, at the Coligny Beach Park entrance, or as the parade enters the Lowcountry Celebration Park. This year, the parade concludes at Lowcountry Celebration Park, situated at 94 Pope Avenue.

Please be considerate of our dunes; do not walk through or stand on them. Leave only footprints behind after the parade, and follow the directions provided by volunteers as they clear the parade route. Most importantly, come together with our community and enjoy this delightful and fun Hilton Head Island tradition.

AFTER PARADE EVENTS:  
Extend the evening with fun festivities at Lowcountry Celebration Park at the close of the parade. Get up close with the large, impressive lanterns and enjoy tunes from the Black Sheep Ensemble. Local musicians, Groove Town Assault, will be performing in the park. Food trucks and beverages will be available until approximately 8 p.m.

Shuttle service to parking areas will continue until approximately 8:30 p.m.

For additional information on the Lantern Parade, visit www.culturehhi.org.