Need more ideas for the kids to do during the season (especially for holiday school break)? Check out our 28 Must Do Holiday Events and Christmas Activities in Atlanta for loads of fun, as well more Christmas lights events in Atlanta.

Encounter giant animal lanterns while wandering the paths at the winter festival.

Winter Lantern Festival Atlanta: Light Up the Night

Before we talk about being at the event, let's talk about what to do BEFORE you get to the event. Winter Lantern Festival Atlanta is an outdoor walking event that takes place in the colder hours of the evening, so dress everyone in your group appropriately, including comfortable, close-toed shoes. The walk takes approximately 45-60 minutes, though meeting with Santa, jumping in the bounce house, and shopping may add to the expected time.

Step into a dazzling world of tunnels and light at the lantern festival. 

Upon entry, everyone in my group received a battery-powered, light-up crown -- my daughters were so excited (my large head couldn't comfortably keep it on). The photos opps are endless around every curve of the festival, though quality of images can be tough with a flash. 

All of the traditionally, handcrafted lantern frames -- made from small pieces of Chinese silk cloth and steel wire -- are lit with modern LED lights. Some of the lanterns (like the Venus flytraps) are animatronic creatures, so as you get closer, they come alive! With the materials and design in places, families get to wander by lifesize snails, snowmen, dragons, and more. My children's favorite sections of the lantern festival included the underwater area, where they saw animated sea turtles, took photos with mermaids, and caught a glimpse of fish. We also loved the arctic section, with polar bears, wooly mammoths, penguins, whales, and more.

Besides looking at these creatures, visitors can interact with them as well. Kids can engage with the illuminated swings, see-saws, tunnels, and more. 

Depending on ticket add-ons, kids can also unleash in the bounce house -- a whale of a ball pit...literally, it's in the shape of a giant, whimsical whale! Another add-on for visitors to purchase includes the Wish Jar: Families buy a star-shaped glass container filled with mini fairy lights to take home the magic of the Winter Lantern Festival. Added features include dino rides, pictures with Santa, food and drinks, and a gift shop.

Party with light-up snails at the Winter Lantern Festival in Gwinnett.

Winter Lantern Festival Atlanta: Know Before You Go

• Depending on specific nights, ticket prices range from $22-26 for adults, in addition to discounted rates for children, military, students, seniors, and family bundles. Pay more for event add-ons: wish jar and the bounce house.
• Located at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, but make sure to enter and park through the southwest parking lot at 2507 Sugarloaf Parkway.
• The venue is partially paved so be mindful when pushing strollers and wheelchairs.
• Dress warmly as the entire event is outdoors and lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Photos by the author