Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re looking for a packing list for the event, a lost ticket, or wondering about our sustainability practices, the help articles cover (almost) everything. Browse them below to find your solution.

What do the lanterns symbolize?

In the Thai tradition, the release of sky lanterns is said to be symbolic of releasing negativity and worries. It is considered good luck, and a sign of renewal.

At Night Lights, we find that the intention and emotion behind each participant's lantern is an intimate decision. Each lantern's meaning is unique and equally important, which is why we include a marker so each participant can make their lantern their own.

What's this event about?

The founder of our event was first inspired by the traditional lantern festival in Chiang Mai when he was living in Thailand, and he wanted to bring this community-driven experience to the US.

Alongside local lantern launches, we support local businesses by hiring small food trucks and entertainers, and we feature musical talent because nothing brings people together like a show!

For us, these events are about more than just releasing a lantern into the sky, watching for a few minutes, and going home— it's an opportunity to connect with people we'd otherwise never meet, establish intentions and let go of our worries as we decorate our sky lantern, and interact with the traditions of cultures other than our own.

Why do people attend Night Lights?

Thousands of Night Lighters write their stories on the spines of our sky lanterns and create memories that will last a lifetime, whether it be an engagement, a family milestone, or the remembrance of a loss.

You’ll see people cry, pose, pop the question, and celebrate under the lantern-lit skies. You’ll hear joyous laughter and squeals of glee as lanterns are carried together in epic waves of love and light. This is a community event for everyone.

What inspired Night Lights?

The founder of our event was first inspired by the traditional lantern festival in Chiang Mai when he was living in Thailand. The Chiang Mai festival is an ancient tradition that has inspired millions across the globe. Traveling to one can be extremely expensive and isn’t often accessible to everyone.

That's why he created Night Lights, a unique take on this spiritual custom that invites everyone to share in and enjoy the magic. We travel across the US and set up our outdoor festival in the heart of communities to bring them closer together.

You don't have to travel across the world to find yourself— magic can be found right in your backyard, at Night Lights.

Is this event safe?

The lanterns that Night Lights use are specially-designed with safety in mind. They are 100% biodegradable, flame retardant, and have a fuel cell with a quicker burn time designed to fully burn out before returning to the earth's surface. The lanterns that we use are above industry standards and have been scientifically created and tested.

We work closely with the local fire authority, government, and venue officials to set protocols in place to ensure the safety of each and every Night Lights participant (as well as surrounding local wildlife).

Is this legal?

I want to propose! How do I get engaged at Night Lights?

Night Lights is one of the most romantic destinations in the country. We're all about the love, and we'd be happy to help you! Need a photographer pass or some advice on the perfect time to pop the question? Email us. We always say YES.

Can I bring my drone?

No drone equipment is allowed unless you were specifically hired to operate a drone for Night Lights Media. If you are interested in collaborating with us, email our media department with your portfolio and the Night Lights location of your choice at media@nightlightsevent.com.

I'm a photographer interested in setting up a shoot at Night Lights.

We encourage local photographers to use our event as a spectacular backdrop and only ask that they be courteous and respectful to participants regarding the amount of space they use for their shoot.

Please email our team at media@nightlightsevent.com if you plan on bringing any large equipment. If you reach out to Night Lights Media in a timely manner, our media team may offer discounted tickets or free entry in exchange for collaboration and image access.

I'm interested in being a vendor at one of your events.

Thank you for your interest! We love supporting local businesses. Please email us at vendors@nightlightsevent.com and include your location of interest, your business, and any other information you feel is relevant (website, social media, photos, etc.).

I'm a blogger/photographer/videographer interested in the event. Can we collaborate?

Of course! We are passionate about empowering content creators and artists across the country. Email us at media@nightlightsevent.com and please include your social media handle, examples of your work, and your location of choice. Pitch us— we can't wait to hear from you!

I want my photos/videos spotlighted on Night Lights' social media platforms.

If you've created high-quality content at one of our events, we want to see it! Email us at media@nightlightsevent.com with the Night Lights location you attended and your proper credits (social media handle, photography accounts, etc.) and we may spotlight you!

I'm a charity and want to work with Night Lights Events.

Thank you for your interest! We love working with local groups to support great causes and facilitate access to our events.

The best way to reach out is to email at least 2 months prior to the event in question. Include relevant links to your group, a timeline if applicable (auctions, fundraisers, etc.) and the Night Lights location you're interested in.

When do I get my wristband?

If you purchased the "Priority Access" option when ordering tickets, you will receive your tickets and wristbands prior to the event. If you did not purchase this add-on, you will receive them the day of the event upon entering.

I can't find my order. What do I do?

First, try logging into the Account Dashboard. If we have your order in our system it will appear here. You can re-send your tickets from the Dashboard as well, if you still don't see them in your email. If you still have issues, please fill out this form. Provide your name and address, ticket confirmation code, and the site where you purchased your tickets, and we'd be happy to help! If you don't hear from us in time come out to the event. We will have a list of all attendees there and can look you up.

How can I add a fire pit or s'mores kit online after I've already purchased my tickets?

Fire pits and s'mores kits are only available at the event at this time.

Do I have to buy a ticket if I just want to watch?

We do not offer a discounted ticket for those who do not wish to participate in the launch. The general admission ticket price covers the cost of admission as well as the items listed above and all event performances and activities.

If I can't attend the original event I purchased tickets for, can I transfer my tickets to a different event?

Yes, your tickets are 100% transferable! A small fee may be required. Fill out this form for further assistance!

If I can't attend the event but have already purchased tickets, can I resell them online?

We understand that sometimes plans change, so tickets are completely eligible to be resold online! We recommend selling through our Facebook events page, specifically for the city your purchase applies to. Many people have also had success reselling on third-party sites and local Facebook groups!

What does a general admission ticket include?

General admission tickets (ages 7+) include an entry wristband, event entry, a sky lantern, lighter, and marker for decorating.

Are children free?

Children 6 and under do not require a ticket.

What does purchasing "Priority Access" do for me?

At Night Lights we try to give every opportunity for you to have the VIP experience, and "Priority Access" provides just that! Purchasing this add-on provides early ticket and wristband access by mail so that you can "skip the line" and be one of the first to enter! Wristbands and tickets are shipped out weekly and you may even receive a few extra goodies ;)

I accidentally bought tickets to the wrong location. What should I do?

It happens! Fill out this form as soon as possible with your desired event location so we can transfer your tickets.

Which websites are safe for me to purchase tickets through?

The only website that we recommend purchasing through is our own. Night Lights does not sell tickets on any other website at this time. If you choose to purchase through any other website or vendor or through social media, please practice safe buying. There have been a lot of invalid tickets and emails going around.

You may reach out to us with a screenshot of the buyers tickets or confirmation email, or name and email address of the buyer, and we will let you know if the tickets appear to be valid.

How do I make sure I never miss a discount?

We have discounts rolling all the time! For the most consistent discount info possible, we recommend following us on Facebook, Instagram, and getting your name added to our email list. We've linked them below for your convenience.

Instagram:
‍https://www.instagram.com/nightlightsevent

Facebook:
‍https://www.facebook.com/pg/nightlightsevent/events

Can we bring food and drinks, including alcohol, in to the event?

Outside food policy is determined by the venue, not us. You can call the venue to check your location's specific rules regarding outside food and beverages. (Sealed water is almost always allowed.) Across all Night Lights locations, there will be an array of food trucks, beer and wine gardens, and s'mores kits available for purchase.

Can I bring a cooler?

Most venues prohibit coolers, but there are exceptions. Please refer to our specific venue pages or contact the venue for your location's specific policies.

What should I bring to set up my spot?

We advise packing camping chairs or pillows and a picnic blanket to sit on. If the forecast for your event date is sunny, you may also want to bring lounge umbrellas for some shade.

Can I bring s'mores supplies?

We will have s'mores kits available for purchase at the event for $10. (One kit can be shared between 5 people.) Depending on your venue's food policy, outside food may not be allowed in. Please check your venue's food policy by visiting that specific event's webpage.

Do I need to bring a lighter for my lanterns?

No, we will provide your lantern lighter at the event. We prohibit outside fire for safety reasons.

Can I bring my own fire pit?

For the safety of our guests and in accordance with fire safety ordinances, we do not allow outside fire pit materials to be brought in. However, there are portable, reusable personal fire pits available for purchase inside the event!

Can I bring markers to decorate my lantern?

Markers are available at the event and a marker comes free of charge with every adult ticket, but you're welcome to bring your own decorating tools.

What should I wear?

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, hats/sunscreen for sun protection, and packing layers for when the sun goes down.

What should I bring to the event?

Great question! We recommend bringing your favorite lounge items such as blankets to lay on, camp chairs, games to play (if that's your thing), and layers for when it cools down later on. Also be sure to bring cash for parking, food, and merch.

Can I bring my own tent or canopy?

Yes! No bigger than a 10x10, since the venue is a shared space. We will ask that you break your shade tents down prior to launch.

Can I bring my pet?

We have a strict no-pets policy unless your animal is ADA certified. This is in place to ensure the safety of guests and their furry friends.

Can I bring chairs?

Yes, please feel free to bring your own camping chairs!

Can I bring my gun?

Guns are strictly prohibited at all Night Lights events. We have law enforcement present at every location to ensure this policy is upheld.

I have a food allergy. Can I bring my own food?

If you or a member of your group have a food allergy, please prepare beforehand. Reach out to the venue for food options and policy. We find that they are usually accommodating to health issues and allergies. You can also reach out to our support staff and request a food exemption pass to allow you to bring your own food.

I'm a photographer. Can I bring props?

Yes, you can absolutely stylize your shoot area! We do ask, though, that you don't exceed your allotted space out of respect for the other participants. If you are interested in a larger scale setup, please email our media department for support and guidelines at media@nightlightsevent.com.

Can I bring a camera?

Yes, feel free to bring your camera. No drones allowed.

Can I bring a wagon or stroller?

Yes, wagons and strollers are fine.

Can I bring my own lanterns?

No, each adult ticket comes with a free sky lantern. If you'd like extra lanterns, they are available as an add-on online and at the event. We use specially-engineered lanterns that exceed safety and sustainability standards. It is dangerous to have any outside lanterns and our stance is strict; if any are found, we will confiscate or deny entry.

Can I bring a drone?

No drone equipment is allowed unless you've been specifically hired to operate a drone for Night Lights Media. If you are interested in collaborating with us, please email our media department with your portfolio and preferred Night Lights location at media@nightlightsevent.com.

Can I bring baby food or formula?

Yes, baby food and formula is fine as long as it is sealed.

Can I bring a wheelchair?

Yes, of course! All Night Lights locations are fully accessible.

How much is parking?

Parking prices vary by venue, and some events offer VIP parking for an added $10. Please refer to your location's event webpage for more specific info.

For some events, a "Parking and Facility" fee is added to each ticket that covers the cost of parking. This means that you won't be asked for a parking fee at the venue. If this is included in your order, you will see it at checkout.

This only applies to events at the following venues: Utah Motorsports Campus, Cedar Lake Cellars, New Castle Motorsports, and Auto City Speedway.

All other venues will charge for parking on event day. Only cash is accepted.

Is VIP parking worth it?

If you find yourself impatient or traveling with children, VIP parking may be worth it to you. VIP parking is a shorter distance to the grounds, which is why most people appreciate its perks.

Are there directions available for parking?

Yes. Prior to the event, we send out parking instructions via email, on the event website page, and on our Facebook event page.

Where can I find directions to the venue?

Please refer to your event website page for Google map directions and the best routes.

Is ADA parking available?

There will be ADA parking available at every Night Lights event; parking staff will lead you to the correct area. While we do have shuttles available to transport participants to the festival grounds, we suggest bringing a chair or wheelchair to move around the venue for the evening if you experience difficulty walking.

How do I redeem a promo code?

It's easy! Simply head to our ticketing site, choose your location and selections for tickets, then enter your promo code in the box to the left of the "checkout" button.

Be sure to type in your promo code exactly (letters, numbers, and special characters) or it will not work. Press "Apply" and proceed to checkout to seal the deal!

Why won't my promo code work?

There are three common reasons why a promo code may not work:
‍

You've entered the code incorrectly. Be sure to write the code correctly (letters, numbers, and special characters) or it will not work.
The promo code has expired. All promo codes have an end date in which they are no longer valid.
The promo code is not applicable to your location. We do company-wide promo codes that include all tour dates, but more commonly issue location-specific codes. Make sure your promo code includes your Night Lights location. We recommend entering your promo code on a desktop or laptop device rather than on mobile, where it can be easier to make a mistake entering a promo code or lose cellular connection.

Do you offer a senior citizen discount?

At this time, we do not offer a senior discount, but we do hope to do so in the near future.

Do you offer a student discount?

At this time, we do not offer student discounts.

Do you offer a military discount?

We do offer a discount for active military and veterans. Please fill out our support form HERE and we will send you the code.

Do you offer refunds?

We do not offer general refunds, much like sporting or musical events. You can only claim a refund if you purchase "Ticket Protection" at checkout for each ticket. Otherwise, you can sell your ticket on third-party sites or our Facebook event page. Fees are non-refundable in any case.

Can I get a refund if an event is postponed?

You can only claim a refund if you purchase "Ticket Protection" at checkout for each ticket. We always have a makeup date in the event of a postponement. Your tickets will be valid for this new date, but you also have the option to transfer your tickets to another Night Lights event or hold them as credit for an event next season.

I accidentally bought tickets to the wrong event. Can I get a refund?

No problem! Fill out this form as soon as possible with your desired event location; we can easily transfer your tickets to the correct event.

I purchased Ticket Protection. How do I access my refund?

Fill out this form to initiate your refund. Include the name and email used during purchase. Refunds take between 3-10 days to be processed.

How long does it take to receive a refund?

Refunds take between 3 to 10 business days to show up in your account.

What happens to all of the lanterns?

Each one of our events is equipped with a full cleaning crew and lantern chasers who quite literally chase lanterns from the moment they are lit, following their entire trajectory, for a quick pickup. Our efficient crew continues a widespread search for lanterns before we leave our event location, sweeping the area during the lantern launch and directly after.

This meticulous process takes a full 48 hours and three separate trips, during which the area is surveyed with extensive care.

We pride ourselves on using ecologically harmless lanterns that are 100% biodegradable. Our lanterns simply contain rice paper, bamboo, and string— we are dedicated to leaving no footprint other than magic. We like to humblebrag that we leave grounds cleaner than when we arrived.

Do the lanterns damage the environment?

The lanterns that we use are above industry standards and have been scientifically created and tested to leave no footprint. The lanterns are 100% biodegradable, flame retardant, and contain a fuel cell designed to fully burn out before the lantern returns to the earth's surface.

Each event is equipped with an experienced staff of lantern chasers who retrieve and gather sky lanterns for 48 hours after the event to ensure grounds are left clean and undisturbed.

How do you minimize your environmental impact?

We are proud of our commitment to sustainability and continue to find ways to give back and improve upon each of our events. Whether that be donating proceeds of an event to a local nature conservation charity or decreasing our paper usage by employing fabric wristbands and digital tickets, we strive to continually improve our efforts and practices as we grow.

Is this legal?

We've worked closely with both state and local officials, as well as fire marshals, to ensure our event is executed safely and legally — especially with regard to the lighting and releasing of lanterns. Night Lights has received a permit for lighting and releasing lanterns. (In most places, this practice is illegal unless you have a permit in place.)

The lanterns that Night Lights use are specially-designed. They are 100% biodegradable, flame retardant, and have a fuel cell with a quicker burn time designed to fully burn out before returning to the earth's surface.

I've seen a photo of an owl strangled by a sky lantern. Is this your event?

This specific image of an owl being trapped inside a lantern is a viral photo from an irresponsible lantern launch in the United Kingdom. This company and event is totally unassociated with us, but their disregard and lack of safety standards are unfairly attributed to lantern event companies in the United States.

Our sky lanterns simply contain rice paper, bamboo, and string! Our lanterns do not contain plastic or metal as the photo indicates. We have never ever had an animal hurt or endangered by our lantern launches.

Is this unsafe for animals?

We pride ourselves on the fact that our lantern launches have never, ever hurt or damaged animals. In fact, we've actually hosted several events at farms and are often invited back!Our sky lanterns simply contain rice paper, bamboo, and string! NO plastic and NO metal that could serve as choking hazards to wildlife. Night Lights’ sky lanterns are 100% biodegradable, flame retardant, and contain a fuel cell that's designed to fully burn out before the lantern returns to the earth's surface for greater safety.

I've heard lantern festivals are being banned across the country; are you one of these events?

There’s nothing worse than seeing negative reviews of other, irresponsible lantern companies who ruin what should be a life-changing experience. This is why we feel that as a leading lantern event, we must set an example and standard for others.

Our lantern launch events are NOT banned. We’ve scientifically tested our lantern flight and disintegration process to ensure the highest quality of engineering, raising industry standards for global lantern production in the process. We've also worked closely with both state and local officials, as well as fire marshals, to ensure our event is executed safely and legally — especially with regard to the lighting and releasing of lanterns.

Bottom line: Night Lights has received a permit for lighting and releasing lanterns (in most places, this practice is illegal unless you have a permit in place).

What activities will there be to do?

Along with the magical lighting of lanterns, there will be live music, lots of games, princesses and/or face painting for the kiddos, food trucks, and other activities!

When is the latest I can arrive?

You can arrive at any time up to launch, but if you're going to cut it close we suggest getting there by sunset.

Do I need to reserve my picnic spot?

No, it's first-come, first-served. For this reason, we recommend arriving earlier rather than later.

Can we bring our own food and drinks inside?

How long does the launch last?

Our lantern launches last anywhere between 15 and 35 minutes, depending on the location and size of the event.

When is the best time to arrive?

We recommend arriving within 2 hours of the gates opening so you can avoid traffic and get settled quickly.

Do we need to bring roasters for the s'mores?

The s'mores kits include roasters, graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate.

Do I need to bring my ID?

You only need your ID if you are planning on purchasing alcohol from our beer and wine gardens or have tickets at will call. Otherwise, you should be fine with just your tickets.

Are there fire pits?

Yes! We do not allow outside fire-making materials of any kind inside of our events, but we do offer portable, reusable personal fire pits for sale on-site.

Why is this event so expensive for a lantern launch?

Lantern launches are not cheap or easy events to produce. To create a safe, sustainable, and stunning lantern launch we work with the highest-quality venues, entertainment, and sky lanterns. Your ticket cost includes access to a 1-day festival, live musical performances, and fun festival activities in addition to your lantern launch admittance.

Where/when do I get my lantern?

You can redeem your lantern card at one of our Night Light tents set up at the entrance of your event. You'll receive a sky lantern, a lighter, and a marker for decorating!

I'm proposing! Is there an opportune time to pop the question?

We'd recommend asking during the lantern launch — it's the most magical time to get down on one knee! If you want help or advice, email our support staff!

Are there activities for adults?

Yes, there are adult carnival games spread out across the venue and live music to dance to. For the hungry or thirsty, we have beer and wine gardens alongside several food trucks.

Is it worth paying for VIP parking to get out faster?

If you find yourself impatient or traveling with children, VIP parking may be worth it to you. VIP parking is a shorter distance to the grounds, which is why most people appreciate its perks.

Will there be a porta-potty?

Yes, every venue has bathroom facilities and water available to all participants.

What kind of food will be available?

Each venue has several food trucks and dessert options. The menu differs by location, but we always make sure to support local businesses and offer a variety of foods and snacks for every type of palette.

When does the lantern launch occur?

We set our lanterns afloat shortly after dusk, depending on the region and time of year. We recommend checking local sun clocks the day of the event for more specific times.

Is there a 21+ area?

There is no separate 21+ area, but there are beer and wine gardens for 21+ Night Lights participants.

Is there a VIP section?

At this point in time, there is not a VIP section available at Night Lights but you can purchase VIP parking.

Do I need to buy a lantern?

Every adult pass comes with one free lantern. For those who would like to light multiple lanterns or help their child light one, extra lanterns can be bought for a small fee of $10 inside our events.

If we have the “Skip the Line” or "Priority Access" wristbands, what’s the best time to come?

You can enjoy the “skip the line” wristband functionality at any time. However, we recommend arriving within 2 hours of the gates opening to avoid traffic.

Is there going to be live music?

Yes, we always have a live musical set at Night Lights Events. To inquire about your specific location's musical guest, make sure to follow our Facebook event page for updates.

Will there be camping?

Some, but not all, markets will offer camping. If camping is an option for your event, you will see it as an available selection when purchasing your tickets on our website.

Is merchandise sold at the event?

Yes! You're more than welcome to shop at our Night Lights store. Just look for our merchandise tent near the entrance of the event!

How many lanterns do I get?

One lantern comes free with each adult ticket purchased. Kid's passes do not come with a lantern. However, extra lanterns will be available for $10 inside of the event if you want to light more together!

Will there be alcohol offered?

Most Night Lights events feature a beer and wine garden for the purchase of alcohol. We recommend calling the venue ahead of time for information specific to your event.

The weather forecast for my location isn't promising. What now?

We closely monitor the weather for every location we visit. In the case of bad weather, we will make our final decision at least 48 hours prior to the event. We notify all ticket holders through email and text messages, as well as our Night Lights social media channels (Instagram and Facebook event page).

What is your weather policy?

Night Lights is largely weather-dependent since we are an outdoor event. Because of this, we offer Weather Protection (Ticket Protection) through our ticketing platform as an add-on when purchasing tickets. We will never cancel an event, only reschedule.

If a participant cannot attend our makeup date, we do offer ticket credit for future events. We monitor the weather closely beforehand and if in the rare chance we are experiencing rough weather, we will alert participants in a timely manner.

How will I know if an event is postponed?

We will alert purchasers via email and through our Night Lights Facebook event page and Instagram account. In some cases, we will also send out a text alert. This notice will be broadcast several times leading up to the event date to ensure participants are aware of a postponement.

Can I get a refund if an event is rescheduled?

As our refund policy states, you can only claim a refund if you purchased "Weather and COVID-19 Protection" aka "Ticket Protection" at checkout for each ticket. We always have a makeup date in the case of a postponement. Your tickets will be valid for this date, or you have the option to transfer your tickets to another Night Lights event or hold your tickets as credit for a future event.. We do not offer general refunds, much like a sporting or musical event.

Do you ever cancel events?

Because we're an outdoor festival, we can definitely be disrupted by poor weather. However, we never cancel our events—just reschedule. If you can't attend the makeup date, we will transfer your tickets to another Night Lights event of your choice.

What if I can't make it to the rescheduled date?

If you can't attend the makeup date, we will transfer your tickets to another Night Lights event of your choice.

If the event is postponed, do I need to do anything to transfer my tickets?

Nope! Tickets are automatically moved to the rescheduled event date and are valid for entry. All you have to do is show up!

How does "Ticket Protection" work?

With Ticket Protection, if we need to reschedule an event because of the weather, you can request a refund for your tickets, transfer them to the rescheduled date, choose a completely different event to transfer them to, or hold them as credit for an event next season.

Without Ticket Protection, refunds aren't allowed but tickets are automatically moved to the rescheduled event date.

You can purchase "Ticket Protection" at checkout for $5/ticket (the fee is non-refundable). This policy only applies to weather cancellations or postponements issued by Night Lights. If you choose not to attend the makeup date, you may receive a full refund on your Night Lights tickets. Refunds can take between 5 -10 days to be processed.

Can I add "Ticket Protection" to my order later?

Ticket Protection must be purchased upon ticket purchase; it cannot be added later at this time.