The Lantern City 2026 — LunarFest’s Illuminated Public Art Experience in Vancouver

The Lantern City 2026 returns as one of Vancouver’s most visually stunning winter art experiences, transforming public spaces into glowing open-air galleries for Lunar New Year. Presented as part of LunarFest Vancouver, this citywide lantern art exhibition runs throughout February and early March under the 2026 artistic theme “Brave the Wind” for the Year of the Horse.

Blending traditional lantern symbolism with contemporary artistic voices, The Lantern City celebrates diversity, resilience, and cultural connection across communities.

🐎 2026 Artistic Theme: Brave the Wind

Inspired by the untamed spirit of the Horse, Brave the Wind explores courage in times of change. The artworks reflect themes of renewal, identity, migration, memory, and belonging — inviting viewers to move forward with strength while embracing diversity and shared humanity.

Lanterns, long symbols of light and hope, become vessels for storytelling in public space — reminding us that even in uncertain times, art can guide us forward.

🏮 Lantern City Locations & Dates

Installations are free to explore and spread across some of Vancouver’s most walkable cultural districts.

🌿 Granville Island

📅 Feb 14 – Mar 8
A creative hub of youth, colour, and community energy, Granville Island’s lantern series reflects movement, imagination, and artistic growth. Featuring contributions from Arts Umbrella, Studio 101 (Eastside Arts Society), and emerging artists, the Forever Young exhibition captures the vibrant momentum of the Year of the Horse.

🌸 šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square

📅 Feb 14 – Mar 9
The Renewal series focuses on rebirth and new beginnings. In partnership with VIVA Alliance, this installation features Iranian-Canadian artists sharing stories of continuity, light, and resilience through lantern art — a reflection of Vancouver’s multicultural spirit.

🏢 800 Robson Plaza

📅 Feb 14 – Mar 9
We Are a Family celebrates the cultural diversity that shapes Vancouver. Lanterns here highlight stories from Chinese Canadian, Japanese Canadian, Métis, and other communities, turning Robson Plaza into a glowing tribute to shared identity and belonging.

🖼️ Pendulum Gallery

📅 Feb 2 – Feb 27
On the Road by artist Zhou Jian-xin explores generational memory, faith, and personal courage through storytelling-inspired lantern works. Located inside Pendulum Gallery, this exhibition offers a quieter, reflective stop along your Lantern City route.

🌬️ Bentall Centre

📅 Feb 9 – Mar 9
The Brave the Wind series showcases South Asian artists including Anu Chouhan, Jag Nagra, and Miles Saraswat. Their works combine bold colour, contemporary illustration, and cultural symbolism to explore identity, queerness, and the beauty of diversity.

Featured works include:

• Cinnabar and Lapis Lazuli by Anu Chouhan
• Forward series by Jag Nagra
• Animal and nature-inspired works by Miles Saraswat

✨ Why You Should Visit The Lantern City

• Free public art across five major Vancouver locations
• A unique blend of traditional lantern craft and contemporary storytelling
• Perfect for evening walks, winter photography, and cultural exploration
• A meaningful way to experience Lunar New Year through art, not just celebration

Whether you explore one stop or follow the full lantern trail, The Lantern City offers a glowing reminder that Vancouver’s strength lies in its diversity, creativity, and shared future.