The Lantern Festival in Málaga makes its debut this year with an unmatched experience that will light up Parque del Oeste for months, brought to life by Ximénez Entertainment alongside Lantern Group. From November 30, 2024, to February 15, 2025, visitors can enjoy over 600 lanterns and 4,000 points of light in an event inspired by the traditional Chinese festival that closes the Lunar New Year. If you plan to attend, this guide from Espacar, your trusted rent a car service in Málaga, gives you all the details on dates, prices, location, and how to make the most of this magical event.
When is the Lantern Festival?
The Lantern Festival will begin on November 30, 2024, and will run until February 15, 2025. This gives you several weeks to plan your visit and enjoy this dazzling light display. During the festival, there will be four daily sessions at 6:00 PM, 7:15 PM, 8:10 PM, and 9:45 PM, offering flexibility to attend at the time that suits you best.
What will the ticket prices be?
Tickets for the Lantern Festival will go on sale on October 15, 2024, with a special pre-sale price of 14 euros per person. Once the event starts, prices will range from 15 to 20 euros, depending on the session chosen. Tickets are free for children under three, who can enjoy the event at no cost. If you plan to attend with friends or family, it’s recommended to buy your tickets in advance to secure your spot at this highly anticipated event.
You can purchase your tickets online through El Corte Inglés or directly on the festival’s official website.
What can you expect to see at the Lantern Festival?
The Lantern Festival will feature more than 600 lanterns inspired by various figures such as animals, mythical creatures, and traditional symbols of Chinese culture. These luminous works of art have been handcrafted by artisans from Zigong, a town famous for its lantern-making traditions, using sustainable materials and equipped with LED lights to minimize environmental impact.
The lanterns aren’t the only attraction at the festival. You can also enjoy cultural performances, craft workshops, and themed exhibitions that will give you insight into the symbolism of the Year of the Snake, the leading figure of 2025, representing wisdom and longevity.
Where will the Lantern Festival be held in Málaga?
The Lantern Festival will take place at Parque del Oeste, one of Málaga’s largest natural spaces, located west of the city near the Antonio Banderas seafront. This park is ideal for hosting the event, with its expansive green areas and lakes reflecting the lanterns’ glow, creating a magical and unique atmosphere.
How to get to the Lantern Festival
Parque del Oeste is easily accessible by car or public transport. If you plan to drive, the park is only 10-15 minutes from Málaga’s city center, and there are parking options nearby. For those who prefer to avoid traffic, several bus lines, such as lines 3, 7, and 15, directly connect the center with the park.
If you’re looking for more convenience and flexibility, another option is a rent a car in Málaga, which will allow you to move freely around the city and its surroundings, making the most of this event and other activities Málaga offers during the festive season.
Tips for enjoying the Lantern Festival
To make the most of your visit to the Lantern Festival, here are a few useful tips:
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Buy your tickets in advance: With four daily sessions and high demand, make sure to purchase your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
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Arrive early: While the park has plenty of space, arriving early will allow you to enjoy the best views without crowds. Plus, you can take advantage of the serene surroundings and explore before the event begins.
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Dress warmly: As this is an outdoor event held during the winter months, temperatures can drop quite a bit at night. Wear comfortable, warm clothing to stay cozy throughout the experience.
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Plan your transportation: If driving, check out the parking options nearby. Alternatively, consider renting a car in Málaga for more convenience, or use the available public transport.
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Bring a camera or a phone with a good battery: The festival’s lights provide perfect photography opportunities, so ensure your camera or phone has enough battery to capture the best moments of this visually stunning event.
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Respect the environment and theme: Enjoy the festival responsibly by respecting the installations and exhibits, as many of the lanterns are handmade crafts and part of an important cultural tradition.
Following these tips, your experience at the Lantern Festival will be unforgettable and hassle-free.
In summary, the Lantern Festival in Málaga in 2024 is a unique opportunity to enjoy a cultural and artistic event in the magical setting of Parque del Oeste. With a stunning display of lights and lanterns that will transport you to another reality, this festival is perfect for all ages. Be sure to buy your tickets in advance and plan your visit well! And if you want to move around the city comfortably, consider renting a car and discovering everything Málaga has to offer this festive season.
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