The annual Menagerie of the Imaginary illuminates the darkness with luminous imaginary creature-themed lanterns created by members of our community. Read on for new events and more information!

Mini Lantern Parade

Friday, February 20th at 6pm

Gallatin County Fairgrounds

This new event will allow attendees meet the large lantern puppets up close and give little ones the opportunity to have their own parade in a more easily accessible environment. This will be a great option for kids under 12 and anyone who finds the terrain at Gallatin Regional Park challenging, and all are welcome. No pre-registration required.

Lantern Parade

Saturday, February 21st at 6pm

Gallatin Regional Park

The 3rd annual Menagerie of the Imaginary Lantern Parade will feature even more lanterns large and small created and carried by Gallatin Valley community members and artists accompanied by musicians and performers. Divided into three magical realms – Air, Water and Earth – participants will wind around the lakes at Gallatin Regional Park, creating an unforgettable evening of shared hope and joy.

More information about attending the parade is coming soon!

More Ways to Participate!

Make a Lantern in our Community Workshops

Learn how to make a simple, beautiful lantern to carry in the parade or bring with you to watch from the sidelines!

Bring a lantern

Would you like to make a lantern at home this year? Do you have a lantern from previous parades that you'd like to bring? We'd love to have you participate in the parade or watch from the sidelines (best option for kids under 12). 

If you'd like to walk in the parade, please sign up so we can send you parade-specific updates. If you will be watching the the parade, no need to pre-register, just bring your lantern with you. 

HOW TO MAKE a lantern

Need a helping hand? Here are downloadable instructions for making a few types of lanterns at home.

Help make the magic happen by Volunteering!

We are seeking volunteers for all lantern-related events. No experience required, just an interest in helping our community come together to create magic! We would love to have you join us for these heartwarming volunteer experiences.

the legend of the menagerie of the imaginary

huge sparkly thanks to our generous partners and sponsors for this event:

Partners

sponsors