Will you be in Philadelphia this weekend? Or any time before June 12? If so, you have the opportunity to catch the Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square.
MFD and I strolled through Tuesday night. It was $34 total for both of us to get in. Even though it was on my spring goal list, I was unsure if I would attend. Franklin Square is one of the original five squares of Philadelphia that is essentially a public space that has been closed to its public during the evening hours unless you want to pay the pricey $17 PP to get in. They erected fugly fences and they're wrapped in black and the whole thing looks horrible.
Obviously I got over it and we went in. It was beautiful and festive and a nice hour of wandering around looking at the joyful lanterns. The price is what I take issue with - $17 each for something you can basically do in 30 minutes. That's a lot for a lot of people, especially families. I wish the art was more accessible to the community. Because it's pretty and fills you with wonder and makes you feel like you're lightly walking around in a land of magic.
I think everyone could use more magic. Probably especially the people who can't afford the ticket prices.
If you go:
- Franklin Square is at 6th & Race
- Can't really help with parking, I snagged an illegal spot on Randolph
- The festival runs through June 12
- You can walk through the square until 5 p.m. The square is closed from 5-6. Hours are 6-10 Sunday through Thursday and 6-11 Friday and Saturday.
- Adults: $17, 17 and under: 12, under 2: free, seniors/military: $15
- You need timed tickets on Fridays and Saturdays, you can get them at the gate
In addition to the lanterns,
- Square Burger is open
- Craftsmen have booths set up
- There's a gift shop (of course)
- Nightly entertainment on a main stage
Whatever you do this weekend, be safe and have a good one!
