The Lantern Fest – Living proof that if you build it, they will come
By J’Nel Wright
For two days in early September, the Lantern Fest was an atmosphere supercharged with friendship and family. The musical talents of Alpine, Utah native Susie Brown echoed from the hillside and over the valley floor.
As darkness settled in, the bustle of campfire chatter and food truck frenzy quieted, leaving only the hum of flickering flame and each guest to his or her thoughts. A blanket of light stretched for a mile, then each lantern quietly and with seeming purpose broke away from the mass and rose into the night, each sent off on its journey with a wish, a thanks, a pledge, or an “I miss you”.
By 10pm on September 12, the once darkened sky was literally set ablaze by one thousand Chinese Lanterns and so became an unforgettable experience for this sold out crowd. Naturally, events of this caliber don’t just happen, it takes organization and a Cracker Jack batch of visionaries to make it happen.
This is where Sack Lunch Productions enters the picture. They are a Salt Lake City-based company that hosts a variety of events all across the country. You may have heard of The Dirty Dash, Slide the City, Color me Rad 5K, and the recently successful Lantern Festival. In a way, you could say Sack Lunch Productions is much like the best friend who always has fun plans for the weekend. And their efforts create profound experiences for their newfound friends at every event.
What is it about the Lantern Fest that attracted so many people to Grantsville Sea Base?
“I think it’s just so magnificent,” explained Marketing Manager Amy Gessel. “People have never seen anything like it before. It’s also a very emotional event. Many people come to remember a loved one, turn over a new leaf, forge through challenges or to celebrate an occasion. But even those who only come to take a few pictures can’t help but feel something as thousands of lanterns float into the night sky.” The Lantern Fest 2015 may be over, but the memories of its impact remain bright.
The 2019 Fall Lantern Fest tickets are available and you will want to get them now while discounts are available here>>
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