Lights by the Lake Festival will return for its third edition from 8 to 22 September 2024. Organised by the National Parks Board (NParks) to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival, the event will be held at the Lakeside Garden in Jurong Lake Gardens. The festival will feature a variety of free and paid activities suitable for all ages.
## Background
The Lights by the Lake Festival is an annual event that aims to bring the community together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. This year, the festival promises to be bigger and better, with an array of activities designed to engage and entertain visitors. The event will run daily from 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Jurong Lake Gardens illuminated by lanterns.
## Largest lantern display yet
Visitors can look forward to viewing over 300 different lanterns, marking the largest display of hand-crafted lanterns to date. Some of these lanterns will depict scenes from Chinese mythology, such as the legend of Chang’e and the legend of the White Snake, allowing attendees to reflect on these traditional folktales. Additionally, lanterns showcasing the gardens’ biodiversity and landmarks will also be featured, providing a visual treat for nature enthusiasts.
## Cultural showcases, funfair games and street food
The festival will also host the 21st edition of the NParks Concert Series in the Park: Rockestra. This one-night-only concert will take place on 14 September from 6:30 pm till late. The “Moonlit Melodies” themed concert will feature a mix of Mandarin and English songs performed by local artists such as Yokez, The Jumpstart, and Juni and Khim from the Music & Drama Company. Attendees can expect an evening filled with music, dance, and cultural showcases.
## Additional activities and attractions
In addition to the lantern displays and concert, the festival will offer a variety of funfair games and street food stalls. These activities are designed to cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The festival aims to create a festive atmosphere where families and friends can come together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival.
## Future implications
The success of the Lights by the Lake Festival in previous years has set a high standard for this year’s event. With the largest lantern display yet and a diverse range of activities, the festival is expected to attract a significant number of visitors. This annual celebration not only highlights the cultural significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival but also promotes community engagement and appreciation for the natural beauty of Jurong Lake Gardens. Future editions of the festival may continue to expand and introduce new elements to keep the event fresh and exciting for attendees.
