Saanich celebrates the coming of fall with light, culture and community in the Gordon Head neighbourhood this weekend.
Visitors can expect live music, entertainment, food trucks and a lantern loop display at Gordon Head Recreation Centre and Lambrick Park Saturday (Sept. 14) from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
"The abundance of lanterns celebrate several things, from lit up vegetables to barnyard animals and quirky birds," said Sarah Faria, events programmer for Saanich. “We have some new surprise lanterns … possibly some old favourites that haven’t been seen in a while as well.”
Entertainment kicks off with Lekwungen Traditional Dancers and includes the Victoria Chinese Opera Club, Furusato Dancers, Sanpaguita Dancers, Chinese Dance Victoria, Uminari Taiko, Bollywood Beats, Victoria Society of Chinese Performing Arts and Happy Drum Group.
The Wong Sheung Kung Fu Lion Dancers finish the evening.
LED lanterns are welcome, while candles are not, and the district hosts an on-site lantern making station for $5 that night.
“We have folks who can help you with the lantern,” Faria said, noting supplies are different each year, so returnees will make some thing new.
Guests are encouraged to dress up and light up with the best illuminated costumes and lanterns earning prizes through the evening.
“We get some really really amazing costumes,” Faria said. Many in the past featured traditional moon festival inspired and a standout last year was the illuminated bride in a long white dress. “Kids come in all sorts of costumes as well.”
The event typically sees about 2,000 people, with most arriving for dusk.
“That’s when the lanterns look their best, they’re all lit up and look spectacular.”
No matter when they arrive, with limited parking at Gordon Head Recreation Centre, Faria encourages guests to consider arriving by bike or bus.
“Folks can even light up their bikes if they want to,” Faria said, adding that was a popular addition to last year’s festival.
Capital Bike offers a free bike valet and Victoria Transit No. 27 and No. 28 service Feltham at Lambrick Way – a short walk to the event site.
Visit saanich.ca for the full event lineup.
