Oak Island Lantern Parade: A Glowing Start to the New Year

Oak Island welcomed 2025 with the radiant glow of its annual New Year’s Day Lantern Parade, a tradition that has become a community favorite since its humble beginnings in 2023. This year’s event was a dazzling display of creativity and camaraderie, drawing a crowd that filled the beach with over 400 uniquely crafted lanterns.

What started as an idea shared online between two Oak Island residents, Melanie Hartung and Carrie Weston Lenzen, has quickly blossomed into one of the town’s most anticipated events. Inspired by a lantern festival in South Carolina, Hartung and Lenzen took a leap of faith and organized the first parade two years ago. From those modest beginnings, the event has grown to attract hundreds of participants and onlookers, eager to celebrate the new year in a family-friendly and artistic way.

A Community Coming Together

This year, the lantern parade once again lit up the night near the Oak Island Pier. Participants showcased their creativity with a stunning variety of lanterns, all illuminated by battery-operated lights. From simple paper designs to intricate and artistic creations, each lantern reflected the maker’s personal flair.

Attendees like Jodi Lower, who joined with her family this year, embraced the event as a fresh way to begin the year. Others, like returning participant Aelisch Price, marveled at how the parade has grown, noting the increased creativity and attendance. Even first-time attendees like Stacy Jacobsen were impressed by the community’s enthusiasm and artistry.

Local Businesses Shine

While the parade itself is free and open to all, its economic ripple effect was felt throughout the town. Parking lots overflowed, and local restaurants reported brisk business as attendees sought out meals and refreshments after the event. This unintended boost to the local economy has become a welcome byproduct of the parade’s popularity.

Plans for the Future

The 2025 Lantern Parade’s success has sparked conversations about its future. With growing crowds and limited parking near the pier, town officials have hinted at possibly relocating the event to Middleton Park to better accommodate participants and spectators.

As Oak Island reflects on another successful parade, it’s clear that this glowing tradition has become a cherished way for residents and visitors to usher in the new year. The anticipation for 2026 is already building, as the community looks forward to another night of light, art, and togetherness.

For those who missed this year’s event, mark your calendars—Oak Island’s Lantern Parade is an experience you won’t want to miss!