One of Roanoke’s newer fall traditions is returning to Highland Park this October, and the Halloween Lantern Festival & Parade is back for its second year on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Hosted by Old Southwest, Inc., the event brings together art, music, costumes, glowing lanterns, and plenty of community spirit for a fall evening that families can enjoy together. The festival will once again take place on the lawn of the Historic Alexander-Gish House at 641 Walnut Ave. SW. Festivities begin at 5 p.m., with the lantern parade expected to step off around 7:30 p.m. once it gets dark.
What makes this event especially fun is that families are encouraged to be part of the experience rather than simply watch from the sidelines. Bring a handmade lantern, add lights to a Halloween costume, create something glowing together at home, or simply come out to see what your neighbors and local artists have dreamed up.
This year’s event is expanding with even more local organizations involved, including Daisy Art Parade organizers, Art Project Roanoke, Scrap Collective, Arts Connect Neighbors, and Latinas Network. Before the parade begins, families can enjoy local vendors, food, music, activities, and a costume contest on the Alexander-Gish House lawn.
Once the sun goes down, lanterns will light up Highland Park as the pedestrian-only parade gets underway. This year’s route will travel along Joel Richert Way through the park and end near the stage by the dog park, where the evening continues with a Giant Shadow Puppet Improv Show, music, and dancing.
Another meaningful part of the festival will be a community Altar de Muertos, or Day of the Dead altar, created by Latinas Network. Families are invited to bring a photograph of someone special they would like to remember, including a beloved pet, and add it to the altar during the evening. It adds a thoughtful element to the celebration and gives families an opportunity to experience and learn more about this tradition of honoring loved ones who have passed away.
For families who have never attended a lantern parade, there really isn’t a right or wrong way to participate. Lanterns can be simple or elaborate, handmade or incorporated into a costume. The idea is to get creative, bring some light into the evening, and enjoy seeing what the rest of the community creates.
Old Southwest is also inviting musicians and local vendors to take part in this year’s festival. Musicians who can carry an instrument while walking are encouraged to join the parade and help add even more energy to the night.
We love seeing events like this grow in Roanoke because they have such a true community feel. Local artists, neighborhood organizations, families, and small businesses all have a hand in bringing the evening together, and it gives kids a chance to experience something a little different from the usual fall festival.
So grab the Halloween costumes, make a lantern with the kids, and add Saturday, October 24 to your fall calendar. This looks like such a fun way to spend an October evening right here in Roanoke.
For More Details and Photos visit Old Southwest Lantern Parade website here.
