One of Baltimore’s most joyful nights of the year is back. On Saturday, October 24, Patterson Park will glow from within as the Great Baltimore Lantern Parade & Día de los Muertos Festival returns, filling East Baltimore with handmade lanterns, glowing floats, costumes and thousands of happy neighbors.
The fun begins at 4 p.m. with a free family festival around the Pulaski Monument. Little ones can join the kids and family costume contest — registration starts at 3:30 p.m. and the contest at 4 p.m. — try lantern making, browse an arts and crafts market, catch pop-up performances and grab a picnic spot with treats from local food trucks.
Then, as the sun goes down, the magic takes over. Marchers line up at 6:30 p.m. and the parade steps off at 7 p.m., winding through the park in a river of light. Everyone is welcome to carry a lantern and march — the more lights, the merrier.
The Walters Art Museum is joining the celebration, too. All month, the museum has hosted free “Luminous Lanterns” drop-in art making so visitors could craft their own parade lantern, and on Saturday night its group will walk behind the Walters banner. Made a lantern at home inspired by the collection? Bring it along and walk with them — joining the Walters group is free, with registration.
With more than 20 years of tradition, this beloved community festival at 2601 E. Baltimore Street is completely free. Grab a blanket, bring the family and help keep Baltimore glowing.
Photo: The Walters Art Museum
