The two-night festival returns to Haggard Park with floating lanterns, live music, food and a new Radiant Tour experience

Plano will glow a little brighter this fall when the Water Lantern Festival returns to Haggard Park for two evenings of lanterns, live music and reflection.

The festival is scheduled for Sept. 5 and 6, 2026, bringing thousands of attendees together for an experience built around connection and community.

A Night Of Lanterns And Intention

As the sun begins to set, guests can decorate their own floating lanterns with messages of hope, love, remembrance or personal intention before sending them onto the water. The event is designed to appeal to all ages.

Along with the lantern release, the festival will feature live music, local food vendors and activities throughout the evening. Guests can also play yard games, take part in a scavenger hunt and visit Lantern Stories, a space dedicated to sharing personal reflections and honoring loved ones.

Meet The Radiant Tour

New for 2026 is the festival’s Radiant Tour, which organizers describe as a more immersive addition to the traditional Water Lantern Festival experience.

Rather than focusing solely on the lantern release, the Radiant Tour encourages guests to slow down and participate in guided moments of reflection and connection before, during and after the event.

“With the Radiant Tour, we wanted to create something that goes beyond a single evening,” said Nate Sorensen, director of events. “It’s about giving guests space to slow down, reflect and truly connect with themselves and the people around them. At its core, we hope every person leaves feeling seen, valued and reminded that they are radiant — and that even a small moment of intention can create a ripple that lasts long after the lanterns fade.”

Keeping Haggard Park Clean

The festival also includes an environmental cleanup effort following each event. A dedicated team removes the lanterns and other materials after the release, with the goal of leaving Haggard Park in the same condition it was found.

The Water Lantern Festival will take place at Haggard Park on Sept. 5 and 6. Tickets are available now.

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