• Pre-walk gathering: 5:00
• Walk begins: 6:00

Light the Night is Asheville's annual community lantern walk, celebrating the Winter Solstice through light, art, creativity, and connection in the River Arts District. The event began in 2024, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, as a way to help our community find light again during an especially dark season. What began as a simple gathering has grown into an annual tradition, inviting people of all ages to walk together with handmade lanterns along the French Broad River.

Today, Light the Night brings people together to celebrate the winter solstice through creativity, community, and our shared connection to the French Broad River and the natural world.

From the beginning, Light the Night has been created in partnership with Street Creature Puppet Collective, whose artists have helped shape the spirit of the event through handmade lanterns, community workshops, and joyful participation. Together, we have created an experience where people don't simply watch the event—they become part of it. Every lantern carried through the walk reflects the imagination, care, and creativity of our community.

Light the Night continues to grow through the generosity of artists, musicians, volunteers, community partners, and everyone who chooses to walk with us.