On Saturday, May 10, 2025, the Stateline Speedway transformed its bright LED lighting into a luminescent haven as thousands gathered around after sunset to release lanterns into the night sky.
The sold-out event took place at the Stateline Speedway right between Spokane and Rathdrum.
Thousands gathered around for the afternoon to enjoy music, community, games and overall, the most important part, the mesmerizing sight of lanterns that ascended into the night sky.
Doors opened at 4:00 pm on Saturday, and crowds started to fill in.
Many buzzed with anticipation as they entered the venue and saw the setup.
Upon arrival, all participants must sign a waiver and turn it in at the front along with their tickets.
Once they have done this, they receive a golden ticket to retrieve their lantern kits, and a trash bag to keep their areas as clean as possible.
After entry, guests make their way to the speedway and pick spots on the track to set up for the night.
It is a first-come, first-served spot reserve.
After setting up, participants can go to the tents to retrieve their lantern packs that include, one lantern, a marker, a prayer flag, a lighter, and instructions of how to set up their lanterns when it is time.
Within this bag is the prayer flag. The guests use this to write something that is meaningful to them or something that they wish to be seen by others, they then take it and tie it onto one of the banners. These flags are taken all over the country as this lantern festival travels around, going from state to state.
Just like the prayer flags, when it comes time, people can write whatever they want on their lanterns that is meaningful to them, or even just a fun design.
“We were passing our lanterns around and writing messages for each other, which I thought was a lot of fun,” Kandice Molitor said.
After receiving these kits and marking a spot, there is still plenty for guests to do as the countdown begins.
Tons of food trucks, merchandise stalls, and merch tents are set up all around the event.
Guests can buy merch if they would like to remember, or they also offer a fireplace and s’mores kit to rent for $50 for the night.
Most wander around at that time to look at what all the vendors have to offer and then go back to their spots and play games until it is time to start decorating and lighting the lanterns.
“We got there early and went to every vendor, which were all super nice, and I think the overall experience was the best, especially the atmosphere,” Molitor said.
As time passes and the sun slowly starts to dip below the horizon, the stage comes alive with live music.
The performers this year were one local band from Post Falls and the other was a single performer, Fred Lee.
The tunes set the tone for the rest of the evening and had many people out dancing with friends and even making new ones throughout the talk.
Having the music in the back while making lanterns and the atmosphere of good vibes was all one needed in that moment, and it helped all to create memories with special people close to them.
Then, as the sun set and the last performer finished, the time arose to set off the lanterns.
The slow, simple song of “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron started to play over the speaker, and attendees all lit their lanterns in unison, releasing them into the sky to create a synchronized display of lights.
Each lantern released into the sky with a message of hope, love, wishes, or even just design, lit up the world for a split moment and wowed all guests, creating an everlasting memory.
The sky and music make it truly feel like a scene out of a movie.
“It was my first time going, and it was truly magical. I will be back next year,” Molitor said.
While most people enjoy this festival every year and love to watch the lanterns fly, one big question is always asked.
What happens to the lanterns after they are released?
Well, each lantern is 100% biodegradable, and its flame is meant to keep them from going far.
The lanterns are designed to be flame-retardant and have a fuel cell that burns out before returning to the ground.
Post-event, the Night Light team goes through the area and does a thorough cleanup, ensuring that the venue is left cleaner than it was found.
This event leaves a lasting impression on many each year, and being able to keep it clean and going is a top priority.
Being able to attend this event again is something that most look forward to and would like to experience another magical night.
“I am 100% going again, it was one of the best things that I have been to and overall a fun time with friends,” Savannah Spalding said.
With the 2025 event going completely sold out, the anticipation for next year’s festival builds. The growth of this festival is truly something to watch, and many are glad it is reaching the attention it deserves.
If you have not been to the Festival, I highly recommend going next year. It is worth the money, and if you join the waitlist early, you can get some killer deals ahead of time.
This event is truly magical and not something you would want to miss out on.
