The Water Lantern Festival is an event where people decorate their own floating lanterns with messages of hope, love, dreams, wishes, etc., before releasing them out onto open waters.
In 2026, the festival will be held on Saturday, September 5 at Hoyt Lake (Gala Waters) in Delaware Park. This family friendly outing is not only a fun and creative way to release messages of remembrance and intention out into the universe, it’s also a fun way to spend time with friends and loved ones.
Along with the lantern release, which takes place at sunset, the festival features live music, local food vendors, and interactive activities. This year’s event is being called the Radiant Tour, as it centers around joy, connection, and personal reflection.
“With the Radiant Tour, we wanted to create something that goes beyond a single evening,” said Nate Sorensen, Director of Events. “It’s about giving guests space to slow down, reflect, and truly connect with themselves and the people around them. At its core, we hope every person leaves feeling seen, valued, and reminded that they are radiant—and that even a small moment of intention can create a ripple that lasts long after the lanterns fade.”
This year’s activities include yard games, a scavenger hunt, and Lantern Stories—a dedicated space where guests are invited to share personal reflections and honor loved ones through their lanterns.
Per usual, festival organizers ensure that the grounds and the waters associated with the festival are cleaned up after the event wraps up. What is left behind are the memories that were made, and plenty of photos that documented the peaceful occasion.
2026 Water Lantern Festival
Event Details:
• Delaware Park
• September 5, 2026
• 5:00 PM (Lantern release at sunset)
• Tickets available now at: www.waterlanternfestival.com/events/buffalo
For event updates, announcements, and special offers, follow @waterlanternfestival on Instagram and Facebook