The Rochester Public Library Children’s Room invites families to participate in a Fall Lantern Walk, a seasonal tradition observed in many cultures during autumn harvest festivals. These celebrations honor the quiet beauty of the coming winter months while reminding us to share light and joy during the darker half of the year.

Families are welcome to stop by the Children’s Room during open hours on Monday, October 6, or Tuesday, October 7, to decorate a lantern with supplies provided by the Library. On Wednesday, October 8, participants are invited to gather on the Library lawn at 6:00 p.m. for a lantern walk around the block. Lanterns made at home are also welcome, but for safety reasons, no open flames are permitted. The Library will provide extra tealights and glow sticks. Light refreshments will be served following the walk.

“Community is at the heart of the Rochester Public Library’s mission. In celebration of this, I thought it would be special to bring families together in a mindful and meaningful way by hosting a lantern walk. The lantern walk is a tradition that celebrates hope, kindness, and the light within us and encourages us to pause and share those things with our neighbors and loved ones,” said Jenn Fogg.

“If families are not able to make it to our lantern-making sessions, they are welcome to make a lantern at home and join us just for the Lantern Walk. Lanterns can be created with recycled materials they likely have in their home. Inspiration for homemade lanterns can be found online,” Fogg added.

For more information, contact the Rochester Public Library Children’s Room at 603-335-7549 or visit rochesternh.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/childrens-lantern-walk.

This event is geared toward families with children ages birth through 12 years.