Agua Luz y Esperanza, the floating lantern festival originally scheduled for early last month, will take place Saturday, November 30 at Chapala’s Cristianía Park – weather permitting.
The event was postponed due to October’s unpredictable climatic conditions.
Drawn from Asian customs, the happening will center on a massive release of small lamps into Lake Chapala’s waters. Participants will put together cube-shaped lanterns to be decorated with the inspirational messages and drawings of their choice and illuminated with tea lights. The latterns are made of biodegradable materials that will be netted and removed from the lake after the festival ends.
Gates to the festival grounds open at 2 p.m. for registration and delivery of lantern kits. Live music, food services and access to the commercial and children’s activity areas start at 3 p.m.
Visitors will have plenty of time to put together and decorate their lanterns before the launchings between sundown and 8:30 p.m.
General admission to the festival grounds is set at 45 pesos. Package deals that include admission, entry bracelet, and a lantern kit held in an eco-friendly bag are priced at 225 pesos for each adult, and 175 pesos for youngsters age 7 to 15. The VIP package includes the aforementioned items, plus entry to the VIP zone and VIP parking lot, snacks and two glasses of wine. A discounted rate is available to resident senior citizens. Children under age 6 are admitted at no charge.
Advance tickets are now on sale at Pancho’s Deli Market, Diane Pearl Colecciones, Mia’s Boutique and Chapala City Hall. Admission may also be paid at the gate.
Look for further details, including information for online ticket purchases, at agualuzyesperanza.com/and the festival Facebook page.
Dale Palfrey