Every October, since its inception in 2014, the RiSE Festival is held in the Mojave Desert outside of Las Vegas. Tens of thousands of people come together to simultaneously launch a flurry of biodegradable lanterns into the night desert sky. It's an incredible experience that's hard to describe and must be seen firsthand!
RiSE Fest Program
The RiSE Festival begins mid-afternoon, offering live music and performances on the unique Compass stage, which is appropriately designed as a compass. While listening to soulful music performances, feel free to treat your taste buds to excellent food and drinks, socialize with like-minded peers, or reflect by writing your thoughts on your lantern given to you at the venue's entry.
When the sun goes down, people prepare their sky lanterns, light them up, and let go at a certain time. Thousands of lights rise simultaneously, creating an incredible sight and sending a message about individual hopes and dreams in one gorgeous display. The night is then usually topped off by a magnificent fireworks display amidst thousands of floating sky lanterns.
Location & Transportation
The RiSE Festival site is on the Jean Dry Lake Bed within the Mojave Desert, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Las Vegas. This gorgeous location with sandy landscapes can be reached by the I-15 highway. You can also get to the festival's grounds on a shuttle from Resorts World and Park MGM in Las Vegas. The shuttles are scheduled every 30 minutes, and you need to purchase a shuttle pass.
Charity
The RiSE Festival strives for a better world in both sustainability and human rights realms. The event regularly partners with local charities, including The LGBTQIA+ Community Center of Southern Nevada, Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth, and Communities in School of Southern Nevada. It donates tickets to various charities so each organization can bring people they support to take part in the world’s largest lantern festival.
