Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival Overview:
Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival is a nightly celebration of Chinese culture in Toronto. The focus of the festival is a display of 40 lanterns depicting scenes of Chinese culture and history that were designed and installed by Master Craftsmen from China.The lanterns can be as high as 50 feet and as long as 300 feet and are truly a sight to behold.
There is also an authentic Chinese Marketplace, cultural events, including Chinese movies, acrobatic performances and much more.
Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival is the largest festival of its kind outside of Asia.
See Pictures of the Chinese Lantern Festival.
Learn more about the traditions of the Lantern Festival or Yuanxiao from the China for Visitors Guide.
Theme for the 2008 Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival:
The Master Craftsmen of Zigong from China arrive at Ontario Place to create an illuminated world that reflects the history and splendour of China. This year, however, sees the theme of the lanterns stretch beyond that of Chinese history to include lanterns of animals, dinosaurs and architectural wonders.Where is the Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival:
Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival is at Ontario Place, specifically Ontario Place's West Island. Ontario Place is located on Toronto's waterfront, south of Exhibition Place, between Dufferin Street and Strachan Avenue.See a map for and directions to Ontario Place.
How Much Time Should We Spend There?
Visitors should allow about an hour and a half at the festival. Some may get through in 45 minutes, others may linger, enjoy the food, take in a show and take 3 hours.Tickets for 2008 Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival:
Visitors should note that Chinese Lantern Festival tickets are purchased separately from Ontario Place tickets and do not entitle holders to Ontario Place attractions.Ticket Price:
Age 13 - 64: $25
Seniors 65+ and children age 4 - 12: $20
Children under 4 are free.
Groups of 20 or more may receive discounted tickets; call 416-314-9933.
Tickets are available online or at the Ontario Place gates.
Schedule and Hours for Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival:
The Chinese Lantern Festival takes place July 31 - October 12, 2008.Hours: July 31 - September 1 (Nightly), 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Thursday & Friday (after Labour Day until Oct. 10), 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday (after Labour Day until Oct. 12), 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Bringing Children to Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival:
The illuminated Chinese lanterns are sure to delight and amaze children. But of course, being prepared is key to the family's enjoyment.The festival is nightly until 11 pm, so young children may be tired and cranky by the end. If you plan on kids dozing off, bring or rent a stroller and have a blanket on hand for cool evenings.
Furthermore, the exhibit covers a lot of ground - about 40 acres - so make sure the kids are up for walking or, again, bring or rent a stroller.
Strollers are available for rent at the guest services centre at Centre entrance and returned to the West security.
Getting to Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival - Public Transit:
Avoid hassle and take public transit to the festival. Driving and parking your car in downtown Toronto is a pain. Plus, parking at Ontario Place is limited and costs $12 no matter how long you stay.Go Transit: Park at a GO Station with free parking and take a GO Bus or Train to Exhibition Place, a 10 min. walk.
Toronto Transit(TTC): The TTC Exhibition Place stop is about a 10-15 minute walk.
Free Shuttle to and from Union Station: A free shuttle runs daily until 8:45 pm. Note that a free shuttle will not be available when the Chinese Lantern Festival closes each night at 11 pm.
Getting to Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival - Driving Directions:
From the east (such as Niagara Falls, Hamilton and Oakville), take the Gardiner Expressway and get off at the Spadina Ave Exit; drive west along Lakeshore Blvd and follow signs to Ontario Place.From the west, take the Gardiner Expressway and get off at the Jameson Ave exit and follow Lakeshore Blvd. Eastbound to Ontario Place.
Parking your car at Ontario Place is $12 most days and $20 on certain special event days.
