Paint A Lantern, Then March In A Parade Through Wolfe Wildlife Park

OAK LAWN, IL — Area-children are invited to join Acorn to Oak Studios, Oak Lawn’s new independent creative center, for the first ever Lantern Parade. Children will walk together with their glowing lanterns through Wolfe Wildlife Refuge in what is sure to be a magical and memorable evening.

Children will gather to decorate their lanterns at 4 p.m. Oct. 18 in the Acorn to Oaks Studios currently based in the former preschool at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Leaving their lanterns to dry, everyone will return to Wolfe Wildlife Park, 107th Street and Laramie Avenue, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. The parade will begin promptly at 7 p.m. Parents will walk with their children, and the entire family is encouraged to participate.

The parade is sponsored by Complete Vision Care. Former mayor Dr. Sandra Bury will help the children decorate their lanterns and will walk with them. She was inspired by a lantern parade she participated in as a child growing up on the South Side. Bury thought it would be something that could be replicated in Oak Lawn. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to share a fun fall activity that isn’t spooky or scary.

“This will be a wholesome and fun activity that is unique and something that children likely haven’t done before," Bury said. "We are looking to make some wonderful memories together.”

Due to a limited number of lanterns available, families are encouraged to register as soon as possible for the Lantern ParadeParticipation in both the creating session and the parade, including an illuminated Chinese lantern, is only $15. Families can choose to decorate one lantern per family, or can purchase extra lanterns for additional children. Register online at Acorn To Oak Studios, or email [email protected] for more information.