Lantern Festival 2013

Overview

An age old tradition to mark the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival promises a weekend of feasting, entertainment and lanterns galore. With Albert park aglow and hosting everything from music and dance to martial arts displays, acrobats and crafts, it's the perfect opportunity for a taste of Chinese culture. And expect to see the same at Auckland's waterfront, with the Lantern Festival featuring at Queens Wharf this year.

Why not treat yourself to an authentic night market experience and grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls lining Princes St? With over 100 vendors on site, there won't be any shortage of tasty morsels. If you're having trouble deciding,  try some tang yuan, or rice dumplings, typically eaten during New Year's festivities. Luckily, the stalls are open from 5 to10.30, so you'll have plenty of time to go back for seconds, or thirds.

Auckland City really get behind the festival, with events and activities at the Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland City Libraries, Queens Wharf and in Lorne St. There's also a Lantern Only night on the Thursday before the Festival officially opens so you can get in for a sneak preview or a romantic stroll minus the hoards. If you can manage to hold out for Sunday night you get the added bonus of the festival-closing fireworks display.

Most importantly, leave yourself plenty of time to see the hundreds of handmade lanterns lighting up Albert Park because there's always something new to see.