By Olivia McCormick
Oct. 15, Volume 47 Issue 1

Whether it’s been a quick stroll through the park or just a drive by from your daily commute nobody can say they haven’t noticed Spokane’s colorful visions covering the park.

From Sept. 26, to Nov. 1, Spokane residents can enjoy these authentic Chinese lanterns and watch performances of traditional dance and skill from Sichuan, China.

“The lanterns on display are very unique to the city our artisans come from,” Jessie Li, representative of Sichuan Tianyu, said. “They remind me of the festivals I used to grow up watching as a young girl.”

The constructions of these lanterns took place on site where 20 artisans from Tianyu brought 16 cargo freighters worth of supplies to Spokane and began construction for the festival in early August.

This is the first time an event of this type has come to America, let alone Washington state. Floral topiaries, neon goldfish and a 192 foot long dragon are present in the park.

“I sat in and watched [the artisans] work,” said Johnell Agee, one of the festival’s main event coordinators. “It took about 3,000 pieces to make one of the elephants that are on display, electric, welding and everything!”

However, major concerns have been brought up about the safety of these exhibits. A week before the festival began two lanterns from the panda display were stolen. In response to this, park security for the festivities have been doubled up.

Nevertheless, opening weekend yielded 5,000 guests, 3,500 on opening night alone. It’s hard to argue that events like these don’t attract attention.

“If you consider all the hours of work put into these display it’s worth every penny.” Kevin Routon, an attendee from Skagit Valley said. “I’m an electrician and every lantern I see, wires running from each little piece of equipment. It’s stunning!”

For information on events involving the arts and more in Spokane follow @VisitSpokane on twitter and for up to date information the Lantern Festival follow @WAlanternfest.