SAVE THE DATE
Elizabeth City Lantern Parade
Thursday, December 31, 2026
6:00 PM Parade Kickoff
Downtown Elizabeth City, NC
Parade route and more info coming soon!
On December 31st, 2026 AOA and Elizabeth City Downtown, Inc. invite you to flood the streets with light, as we march into the New Year together during our city’s second annual lantern parade!
This free community event encourages community members and visitors of all ages to join the parade with their own lanterns—all shapes, sizes, and styles of lanterns are welcome. Parade route to be announced soon.
Questions? Email us at eclanternparade@artsaoa.com
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The parade is free for all to participate! This is a family friendly opportunity to see beautiful works of art or participate with your own. The walking parade will take place in downtown Elizabeth City.
Stay tuned for more information about the route and meeting place.
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Yes! Lighted lanterns of all shapes, sizes, and kinds are welcome!
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AOA’s Lantern Committee is thrilled to offer a variety of lantern-making workshops throughout the year. See below for opportunities to participate in a lantern-making experience. More workshops will be listed throughout the year.
Can’t make it to any of our workshops? Feel free to use your creativity to make your own design.
Here are some easy at-home tutorials:
Upcoming Lantern Workshops
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Time: 10 am - 2 pm
Location: AOA’s Madrin Studio - 115 N. Poindexter St.
Price: $30
Capacity: 16
Age Requirement: Lantern workshops are designed for adults 18 years and older
Supplies: all supplies included
Description: Craft and personalize your own illuminated house lantern!
Your finished lantern is invited to join other glowing creations in the 2nd Annual Lights of the Albemarle Lantern Parade happening in downtown Elizabeth City on New Year's Eve. Come make art, celebrate community, and help light the way into the new year!