What is Light the Night?
Light the Night is a free community lantern walk celebrating the winter solstice through light, creativity, and connection.
The event began in 2024, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, as a way to help our community find light again during an especially dark season.
What began as a simple gathering has grown into an annual tradition, inviting people of all ages to walk together with handmade lanterns along the French Broad River.
Today, Light the Night brings people together to celebrate the winter solstice through creativity, community, and our shared connection to the French Broad River and the natural world.
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Built Together
From the beginning, Light the Night has been created in partnership with Street Creature Puppet Collective, whose artists have helped shape the spirit of the event through handmade lanterns, community workshops, and joyful participation.
Together, we have created an experience where people don't simply watch the event—they become part of it. Every lantern carried through the walk reflects the imagination, care, and creativity of our community.
Light the Night continues to grow through the generosity of artists, musicians, volunteers, community partners, and everyone who chooses to walk with us.
Be Part of the Magic
Help bring Light the Night to life. Every contribution helps make this community tradition possible.
Light the Night AVL is a sponsored project of Fractured Atlas, a non-profit arts service organization. Contributions for the charitable purposes of Light the Night AVL must be made payable to “Fractured Atlas” only and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.