Lantern Fest Carrabelle 2026
Quick facts
- Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 6:00–10:00 PM
- Where: Crooked River Lighthouse Park, 1975 Hwy 98 W, Carrabelle, FL
- Tickets: $15 advance (ages 13+), $20 at the gate; kids 12 and under free. Advance tickets recommended — local residents get a discount on advance tickets bought in person.
- Phone: (850) 697-2732
- The lighthouse: built 1895, 103 feet — the tallest on the Forgotten Coast
- Last verified: October 19, 2026
What is Lantern Fest?
Lantern Fest is Crooked River Lighthouse’s signature autumn evening: an outdoor festival best known for its display of more than a hundred colorful hanging lanterns strung throughout the park, lighting up the night around the 1895 maritime landmark. Many of the lanterns are genuine works of art, painstakingly handmade by Joan Matey and other gifted local artists. Beyond the lanterns, the evening packs in live music, glow-in-the-dark dance performances, special evening tower climbs, ancient craft demonstrations, museum exhibits, keeper’s tales, the Fresnel lens exhibit, wandering Lantern Ladies, the Giant Moth, and food and desserts. See the official event listing for tickets.
Music and performances
The Bottom Dollar Boys return to Lantern Fest — a bluegrass group delighting audiences for more than 40 years with traditional harmonies and mighty fine pickin’, spanning bluegrass, old country, gospel, and Americana with a pinch of blues. They’ll be joined by the Tallahassee State College Dance Company, dazzling guests with choreography and imaginative glow-in-the-dark props and illusions.
Evening tower climbs, ancient crafts, and food
During the festival, special evening tower climbs run to the top of the 103-foot lighthouse for panoramic night views over the bay. On the grounds, John Pfund and Chris Cauthen set up the blacksmith forge while Ken Horne weaves rope from local plant fibers — two ancient craft demonstrations. Food trucks serve dinner and the Beacon Bistro handles desserts.
Where to stay for Lantern Fest
Carrabelle sits just west of the St. George Island bridge — a short drive back to the island after the lanterns go dark. A Collins Vacation Rental on SGI makes an easy home base: festival lights in the evening, quiet beach morning after. Book direct with the local island team.
FAQ
When is Lantern Fest in 2026?
Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 6 to 10 PM at Crooked River Lighthouse Park in Carrabelle.
How much are Lantern Fest tickets?
$15 in advance for ages 13 and up, $20 at the gate; kids 12 and under are free. Advance tickets are recommended, and local residents get a discount on advance tickets purchased in person.
Can you climb the lighthouse during Lantern Fest?
Yes — special evening tower climbs run during the festival, with night views from the top of the 103-foot tower.
Who is performing at Lantern Fest?
The Bottom Dollar Boys (bluegrass) and the Tallahassee State College Dance Company (glow-in-the-dark dance performances)