A Complete Guide to the 2026 Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade

Hilton Head Island’s shoreline is about to glow again. Here’s what to know before the 2026 Lantern Parade, whether you’re carrying a lantern or watching the magic unfold.

Story by Sheila Paz
Photography by Arno Dimmling

Once a year, Hilton Head Island’s night sky comes alive with a vibrant glow as the Lantern Parade lights up the shoreline. From towering herons to radiant jellyfish, this dazzling procession transforms the beach from Alder Lane to Coligny Plaza into a breathtaking display of art and creativity. A new parade route and new musical entertainment — including four bands who will march in the parade — make this year’s celebration a must-see for first-time visitors and returning spectators alike.

“The Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade has quickly become an island tradition. It’s such a community-focused arts experience. My favorite part of the parade is seeing the creativity and enthusiasm of our residents and visitors on display. Whether you’re a professional artist or not, all are welcome to be creative and to join the fun,” says Natalie Harvey, director of cultural affairs for the Town of Hilton Head Island.

This year’s parade steps off at 5:45 p.m. on Nov. 14.

Plan ahead for the magic

Parking

For ease of travel, park at the University of South Carolina Beaufort’s Hilton Head Island Campus (1 Sand Shark Dr.), and take the shuttle operating from 4:15-9:15 p.m. The shuttle will drop off and pick up passengers from Lowcountry Celebration Park. Those parking at the USCB lot are encouraged to drop off their party closer to the parade route, so only one person per group will end up taking the shuttle.

Other available parking lots:

• Coligny Beach Parking Lot
• Former Wild Wings lot, 72 Pope Avenue
• Former Aunt Chilada’s lot, 69 Pope Avenue.
• First Baptist Church,100 S. Forest Beach Dr.
• St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 50 Pope Avenue

Accessible parking:

A portion of the Coligny Beach Parking Lot nearest to the beach will be reserved for accessible parking and viewing areas. Volunteers will be present to verify hangtags.

Pre-Parade Events

Make sure to arrive early because the festivities begin long before sunset. Starting at 3 p.m., food trucks and drinks will be available at Lowcountry Celebration Park. Near the parade’s starting point, the Marriott Grande Ocean will also host pre-parade activities, including live music, food and lanterns available for purchase.

Join the parade

Want to be a part of the parade? It’s easy — just bring your own lantern. Admission to the parade is free, but you must bring a glowing creation. And when it comes to lanterns, anything that lights up counts. Get creative with light-up hats, umbrellas or even handmade lanterns if you’re feeling crafty.

Lantern-making workshops

Looking for inspiration? Join one of these fun lantern-making classes to create your own glowing masterpiece. 

• Carolina Coffee & Crumbs: 5-7 p.m., Nov. 10-11
• Coastal Discovery Museum
  • Butterfly Lanterns and More: 10 a.m.-noon, Nov. 3 & Nov. 9; 5:30-7:30 p.m., Nov. 12
  • Jellyfish Lanterns: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Nov. 5
  • Family Friendly Workshops, 10-11:30 a.m. & 2-3:30 p.m., Nov. 7

Participant guidelines

To keep everyone safe, those planning to walk in the parade must follow the direction of security officers and volunteers and refer to the following rules.

• Parade line-up begins at 5 p.m. near the Alder Lane beach entrance. Step-off begins at 5:45 p.m.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Be mindful of the bands and participants with large lanterns.
• Bicycles, amateur drones, pets and flaming lanterns are prohibited.
• Groups planning to march together must contact the Office of Cultural Affairs (oca@hiltonheadislandsc.gov) with the name of the group, number of participants and contact information.

Where to watch

If hoping for a quieter view, find a spot along the beach between the parade’s step-off point at Alder Lane and its finish at Coligny Plaza. If looking for a little more excitement, head to Lowcountry Celebration Park and await the finale. For those who can’t make it to this year’s festival but would still like to catch a glimpse, the Beaufort County Channel will livestream the event.

Parade route map

Spectator guidelines

Guests not participating in the parade must abide by the following rules to guarantee a safe and fun experience:

• Follow the direction of security officers and volunteers.
• Keep the parade route clear.
• Children must be supervised by an adult.
• Do not walk through or stand in sand dunes.
• Dogs can accompany spectators, but they must not walk in the parade.

FAQ / AEO

When is the Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade in 2026?

Saturday, November 14, 2026. Participants begin lining up at 5 p.m. and the parade steps off at 5:45 p.m.

Where does the Hilton Head Lantern Parade start?

The parade begins at Alder Lane Beach Access, just south of Marriott’s Grande Ocean resort. It travels north along the beach before continuing to Lowcountry Celebration Park.

Where can you park for the 2026 Lantern Parade?

The official parking list includes Coligny Beach Parking Lot, 72 and 69 Pope Avenue, First Baptist Church, St. Luke’s Anglican Church and the USCB Hilton Head Island campus.

Is there a shuttle for the Lantern Parade?

Yes. A shuttle operates from USCB’s Hilton Head Island campus from 4:15 to 9:15 p.m., with return service from Lowcountry Celebration Park until approximately 9:15 p.m.

Can anyone participate in the Lantern Parade?

Participants must carry a lantern and follow the parade marshals’ directions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bicycles, pets, amateur-piloted drones and flaming or flying lanterns are prohibited from the procession.

Where is the best place to watch?

The Town recommends watching along the beach between Alder Lane and the Beach House or at Lowcountry Celebration Park for the finale.