Pre-Parade Party

Note: The information on this page is about a past event. Stay tuned for details about Lantern Parade 2027!

Before the Lantern Parade steps off, join us at the Pre-Parade Party at the Sandy Springs Municipal Complex, 6 – 8:30 p.m. The party is packed with activities for everyone – whether you're marching in the parade or cheering from the sidelines.

Pre-Parade Party Activities

👟 Parade Start

This party is the starting point for the parade! If you are walking in the parade, line-up is at 8 p.m.

🎧 Live DJ

Live DJs spin a mix of awesome party music, lead hula-hoop contests, and more.

🎈 Balloon Artist

Watch the magic unfold as a balloon artist creates animals, swords, and other fun shapes.

🧼 Bubble Station

Step into a world of bubbles! Kids can create giant, sparkling bubbles using all kinds of silly gadgets and unexpected objects.

💃 Stayin' Alive Dance Crew

Right before parade line-up, enjoy a performance from Stayin' Alive, a non-profit dance crew of performers aged 50+. They inspire everyone to keep moving and grooving!

🐟 Fish Choir

Several fish puppets have discovered a love for singing (well, lip-syncing). They will be performing at the Pre-Parade Party!

🌭 Food Trucks

Savor delicious bites from a variety of food trucks:

Bento Bus: Signature rice bowls, zesty Asian tacos, crispy wonton nachos, and bold, mouthwatering dishes.
Dogs on Wheels: Hotdogs & more
Small's Big Taste: Wings, tacos, fries with big flavor!
Three Tikis: Hawaiian Shave Ice with toppings and ice cream

Two guests enjoy the Pre-Parade festivities. They are holding up lanterns that look like pokemon balls. In the background is a food truck.

Lantern Parade participants create their own unique lanterns. Who knows what lanterns you'll discover!

Know Before You Go

🏮 Lanterns

Make your lantern in advance, then bring it to join the parade. (Only LED battery-powered lights; No fire or flying lanterns.)

⏰ Schedule

The Lantern Parade is on Saturday, May 9th.

6 – 8:30 p.m.: Pre-Parade Party
8:00 p.m.: Parade line-up
8:30 p.m.: Parade step-off

🗺️ Parade Route

Parade steps off at the Pre-Parade Party (Sandy Springs Municipal Complex), walks along Morgan Falls Rd, and ends at Overlook Park. The parade route is 1 mile, downhill. Learn more about the Parade