About the Festival
The Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival is an upcoming lantern event in New South Wales, Australia. It is inspired by Asian floating lantern festivals such as Loy Krathong in Thailand and the Full Moon Lantern Festival in Vietnam. Featuring floating lanterns, this festival is part of a series of global water lantern events that focuses on building community and celebrating the beauty of life.
The family-friendly festival allows guests to take part in the event. During the festival, guests can design their individual lanterns. They can write messages of hope, remembrance, or inspiration on their respective lanterns, or simply draw something fun and nice before setting the lanterns on the water. This particular activity makes the festival more than just a visual experience, but a meaningful and heartfelt one.
Here are the highlights you can expect at the Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival:
- Food Trucks – A selection of food trucks serves up casual meals and snacks that are perfect for a laid-back evening outdoors.
- Live Musical Performances – Live music adds warmth to the night and helps set a relaxed mood. The performances blend naturally into the evening, enhancing the overall experience.
- Fun Games – Easygoing games give families and groups something playful to enjoy before sunset. They bring extra energy to the early part of the event and keep the atmosphere lively.
- Launching of the Lanterns – The lantern release is the centerpiece of the festival, with glowing lanterns floating together across the water. Watching these glowing lanterns drift across the water is a captivating experience that one can only get from this beloved event.
When is the Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival
The upcoming water lantern festival is a two-day event that takes place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, and Sunday, February 22, 2026. Hosting the celebration over a weekend gives visitors plenty of room to choose the night that suits them best. Each of these dates promises an evening filled with mesmerizing sights courtesy of the floating lanterns, as well as good vibes and memorable moments.
Make sure to save these dates and mark your calendar if you wish to take part in this event. You can choose a single day to experience this must-see occasion, or you can take part in both dates of the festival. Either way, Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival is set to be a celebration that will give you great and long-lasting memories.
Where It’s Located and How to Get There
The venue for the event will be at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, located at 362 Narellan Road in Mount Annan, New South Wales, Australia. Known for its wide-open landscapes, lake, and native plant collections, the garden provides a calm and scenic setting that works beautifully for a water lantern celebration. The spacious layout allows visitors to move around comfortably while enjoying all the activities the festival offers.
For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, which sits around 40 kilometers from the garden. The airport connects easily with Sydney’s train network and major roads, making onward travel manageable even for first-time visitors. From there, several transport options can get you to Mount Annan with minimal hassle.
Getting from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport to the Festival:
- Car Rental: Renting a car at the airport offers the most direct route, with the drive taking about one hour via the M5 Motorway and Narellan Road. Parking is available at the botanic garden during major events.
- Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services operate around the clock from the airport and provide a straightforward trip straight to Mount Annan.
- Train and Taxi or Bus: Travelers can take an Airport Line train to either Campbelltown or Macarthur Station, then continue by local bus or a short taxi ride to the garden.
Getting to the Festival by Train from Nearby Cities:
- From Sydney CBD: Take a T8 Airport & South Line service toward Campbelltown or Macarthur Station, both of which are the closest rail stops to Mount Annan. From either station, continue by local bus or taxi to reach the Australian Botanic Garden.
- From Parramatta: Board a train toward Glenfield or Central Station, then transfer to a Campbelltown or Macarthur-bound service. Once you arrive, a bus or taxi completes the final stretch to the garden.
- From Campbelltown: Trains from surrounding suburbs regularly stop at Campbelltown Station, which is only a short drive from Mount Annan. From the station, local buses and taxis offer quick access to the festival location.
You can also check out these other spectacular lighting events across Australia:
Festival Hours
Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival will run from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, setting the stage for an evening full of great moments. Gates will be opened at 5:00 PM, giving guests time to grab food from the trucks, enjoy live music, and take part in lighthearted activities around the grounds. It’s recommended to arrive early or right on time so you can make the most of everything the festival has to offer.
Decorating your lantern will take place at 7:30 PM, offering a quiet moment to get creative and express your feelings and thoughts. Between 8 and 9 in the evening, the lanterns will be released onto the water, perfectly wrapping up the night with a breathtaking finale.
How Much Does It Cost to Attend the Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival
To attend the festival, you need to choose a ticket option that fits how you plan to enjoy the evening. General admission provides full access to the event along with a lantern kit and a few added touches that make the experience more interactive. It’s a straightforward way to take part, decorate a lantern, and enjoy everything happening around the grounds.
There are also ticket bundles designed for couples, families, and larger groups. Shared packages come with extra items meant for enjoying the night together, while group deals help keep costs down when attending with friends. Kids are welcome too, making the festival an easy outing for all ages.
General Admission Tickets:
- Early Bird Pricing – $39.99
- Regular Price – $49.99
- Last Call Pricing – $59.99
- At the Event Price – $69.99
What’s Included with General Admission:
- Entry wristband for festival access
- One floating lantern kit with lantern, tealight, and marker
- Playing cards and conversation cards
- Entry into the scavenger hunt giveaway
Date Night Special:
- Price: $89.99
- Includes two General Admission tickets
- One cozy park blanket or mandala
Group Deal:
- Price per person: $32.99 (sold in packs of four)
- Each person can get everything the General Admission ticket offers
Children’s Admission:
- Children aged 8 and under: Free admission
For more information, you can visit the festival’s official website and social media channels.
Weather and What to Wear
February in Mount Annan falls in the middle of summer, bringing warm days and evenings that stay comfortable for an outdoor festival. Nighttime temperatures usually range between 20°C and 26°C, with a mix of summer warmth and light humidity that feels easier once the sun sets.
What to Wear to the Festival:
- Light, Breathable Top – A shirt made from cotton or linen helps keep things cool during the earlier hours of the event. These fabrics feel softer on warm skin and stay comfortable as you move around the grounds.
- Comfortable Shorts or Lightweight Pants – Shorts are a good choice while the air still carries daytime heat, especially near sunset. Lightweight pants work just as well later on and offer a bit more coverage without feeling heavy.
- Light Jacket or Thin Jumper – Temperatures can dip slightly after dark, especially near water. Having a light layer on hand makes it easy to stay comfortable during the lantern launch.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes – Expect plenty of walking and standing throughout the evening. Supportive shoes help you enjoy the festival longer and keep your feet happy by the end of the night.
- Hat or Cap – Arriving early often means some lingering sunshine. A hat adds comfort at the start of the evening and can be tucked away once the light fades.
Where to Stay – Hotels Nearby
If you’re planning to stay overnight, there are several comfortable hotel options close to the festival that make the evening easy and stress-free. Here are some of the hotels you can choose from:
- Rydges Campbelltown – Based in Campbelltown, this four-star hotel features modern rooms along with a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi. On-site parking makes it easy to come and go, especially after an evening at the festival.
- ibis budget Campbelltown – This three-star hotel is a good pick for a comfortable stay, offering air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking. Its location in Campbelltown keeps you within a short drive of the festival grounds.
- Narellan Motor Inn – With free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and on-site parking, this three-star motor inn offers a comfortable and quiet place to rest. It’s set close to shops and eateries in Narellan, just minutes away from Mount Annan.
Where to Eat
For those looking to grab a good meal before or after the lanterns hit the water, there are several easy dining spots close to the festival. Here are some of the ones you can try out:
- Mount Annan Chinese Restaurant – Located inside the Mount Annan Central Shopping Centre, this restaurant serves familiar Chinese dishes in a casual setting. Steamed duck with mushroom, curry chicken with boiled rice, and a range of omelettes make it a popular stop for a satisfying meal.
- The Garden’s Café Mount Annan – This café keeps things simple and comforting, with a menu that works well for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. Dishes like eggs benedict, smoked salmon salad, and the classic Angus burger are served at its spot on Narellan Road in Mount Annan.
- Noodle Paradise – Known for quick service and generous portions, this noodle shop sits within the Mount Annan Marketplace, right in the middle of local shopping. Black pepper beef noodles, BBQ pork noodles, and vegetarian oyster noodles are among the go-to choices for a filling bite.
More Things to Do in the Area
If you have extra time before or after the festival, the surrounding area offers a few great spots that are well worth adding to your plans. Here are some of the places you can visit:
- Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan – Located at 362 Narellan Road in Mount Annan, this expansive garden covers hundreds of hectares of rolling terrain and native plant displays. It’s an easy place to wander during the day, with wide paths and open views that set a calm tone before the evening events.
- The Australian Botanic Garden Playground – Designed with families in mind, this playground features swings, picnic spots, and barbecue areas for a laid-back outdoor break. You’ll find it within the grounds of the Australian Botanic Garden at Mount Annan, making it simple to combine with a garden visit.
- Sydney Opera House – Known worldwide for its striking design and busy performance schedule, this landmark offers everything from concerts to waterfront dining. Sitting on Sydney Harbour at Bennelong Point in the middle of Sydney, it’s a memorable stop for anyone extending their stay.
An Illuminating Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival
The Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival promises a special and meaningful way to spend an evening under the open sky. From the peaceful setting to the shared moments around the water, everything about this event is designed to help people slow down and enjoy the night. It’s the kind of experience that lingers in your thoughts long after the lanterns float away.
What sets this upcoming festival apart is its focus on connectivity and the importance of being in the present. There’s no pressure to rush from one activity to the next, just time to decorate a lantern, take it all in, and enjoy the company around you. That simplicity is exactly what makes this event something that you shouldn’t miss.
If you’re searching for something memorable to look forward to, this festival deserves a spot on your calendar. The Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival invites you to take part, share a moment by the water, and watch your lantern drift into the night. When it finally arrives, it’s an experience best lived in person.
FAQ
Is the Mount Annan Water Lantern Festival family-friendly?
Yes, the festival is designed for all ages and welcomes families, couples, and groups. Children aged 8 and under can attend for free, making it an easy outing for parents with young kids.
Will parking be available at the festival?
Parking is available within and around the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan during the event. Spaces can fill up during peak arrival times, so getting there early is a smart move.
Are pets allowed at the festival?
Only registered assistance animals are permitted at the venue. Other pets are not allowed, in line with the botanic garden’s rules to protect guests, wildlife, and the grounds.
Can I take photos at the festival?
Personal photography is welcome, and the glowing lanterns make for great photos. Drone use and professional or commercial filming require prior approval from venue management.
Will there be food available onsite?
Yes, food trucks will be set up throughout the festival offering a range of meal and snack options. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy picnic-style.
Is the festival accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids?
The festival site includes accessible pathways and facilities suitable for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Accessible parking and restrooms are also available within the botanic garden.
Are restrooms available at the venue?
Public restrooms are located within the Australian Botanic Garden and will be open during the event. These facilities are spread across the grounds and include accessible options.
What happens if the weather changes?
The festival usually goes ahead rain or shine, with safety monitored throughout the evening. In the case of severe weather, updates or changes are shared directly with ticket holders by the event organizers.
Sources: https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/events/mount-annan
