Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade

A stylized firefly in warm browns surrounded by a watercolor purple night sky with stars and a moon.
Text that reads, "Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade"

Saturday April 1, 2023, 8pm gathering at Dudley Park

Leisure Services is pleased to invite all of Athens community to Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade. Let us light up the winding paths to Dudley Park together! This parade is open to the entire Athens community, individuals, families, school, neighborhood groups, and organizations are all encouraged to participate. Bring your lanterns, flashlights, and your imagination and join in the parade.

Participants will enjoy live music, fantastical performers and large-scale illuminated puppets. On the night of the Flight of the Fireflies Lantern Parade, each access point to Dudley Park will be color-coded and staffed with friendly volunteers to help you find your way. Meet your friends and families at any of the three entry points.

A map showing the access paths to Dudley Park for the Lantern Parade.

DIY lanterns are encouraged! However, only portable light source powered by battery, solar, or other flameless lights are welcomed.

Together we can create a fun, inclusive activity for the Athens community that celebrates the completion of park renovations, introduces people to the ACC trails network and provides a unique community experience in Dudley Park.

Please check ACC Leisure services social media for weather updates. The event will be canceled if it rains.

The Oconee Street United Methodist Church has offered their parking lot for Lantern Parade participants who wish to enter Dudley Park on Poplar Street.

The Classic Center parking deck will be available at a discounted rate of $5 for Lantern Parade participants. There will be a parking attendant on duty and participants will need to mention the lantern parade to receive the discounted price.