Join the Parade

Lantern-making workshops.

Host a lantern-making workshop at your school, studio, lobby or community room — or join one near you as they are announced.

Join the Parade — FreeParade Guide

Before January 23

Host a lantern-making workshop

Bring your community together to make lanterns before the parade — then walk Lincoln Road together on the night.

  • Schools
  • Businesses
  • Hotels
  • Restaurants
  • Neighborhood associations
  • Condo associations
  • Community organizations
  • Libraries
  • Arts organizations
Host a Workshop
Easy DIY · Wearable Cardboard Box Lantern

Wear the Parade

Turn a cardboard box into a walking work of light.

One of the easiest, most eye-catching lanterns you can make. Wear a real cardboard box around your torso — head out the top, arms through the sides — and turn all four sides into Into the Blue artwork.

The light goes on the outside: battery-powered LED rope or string lights wrapped around the edges and tracing your design, so you glow from every angle. Inexpensive, fun and achievable for families, schools, businesses and community groups.

Rolling wavesGlowing jellyfishSea turtleCoral gardenStarfishSchool of fishAbstract ocean patternsAn “INTO THE BLUE” message box
A child and an adult wearing painted cardboard box lanterns with a jellyfish and sea turtle, lit by LED string lights on the outside edges

Illustrative concept

How to Make It

  1. 01

    Choose a lightweight cardboard box that fits comfortably around your torso.

  2. 02

    Cut a generous head opening and arm holes. Reinforce and smooth the edges with tape so they're rounded and comfortable.

  3. 03

    Paint or decorate all four sides in an Into the Blue design.

  4. 04

    Attach battery-powered LED rope or string lights to the OUTSIDE edges or along the artwork using safe clips, zip ties or tape.

  5. 05

    Secure the battery pack inside the box, then test movement and visibility well before parade night.

  6. 06

    Optional: add shoulder or waist straps to keep the box stable while you walk.

Safety First

  • Battery-powered LEDs only
  • No candles or open flames — ever
  • Keep all wiring secured and tucked
  • Keep head and arm openings clear so you can see and move
  • Keep it light enough to walk comfortably

No flames — LED lights only. Lanterns must be self-powered. There will be no electrical connections available for parade lanterns or mobile illuminated creations.

Typical Size

Roughly 16–18 inches wide and 18–22 inches tall. These are only a guide — adapt the dimensions to your body and your design.

Sign up to hear about lantern-making workshops, where artists and materials can help you build yours.

Keep exploring

Lantern Ideas Ideas for handmade, wearable and rolling lanterns for the Miami Lantern Parade — all self-powered, all made by the community.Schools & Groups Bring your school, class or youth group into the Miami Lantern Parade. Make lanterns together and walk Lincoln Road on January 23, 2027.Artists Miami artists, designers and makers: create lanterns, lead workshops and help shape the first Miami Lantern Parade on Lincoln Road.Community A community arts program across Miami that culminates in a free lantern parade on Lincoln Road, Miami Beach — including the Cultural Art Exchange.