Did you see Tangled? One of the most beautiful images involved the launching of thousands of lanterns into the night sky.

The scene was inspired by lantern festivals, which can be traced back as far as 2000 years ago. China, Taiwan, Thailand, India and many other countries have a long history of festivals featuring floating lanterns.

Hundreds of lantern festivals are still being held all over the world. In the US, there are now several lantern festivals being held throughout the year.

During some festivals participants write wishes, hopes and dreams on their lanterns. They wait until instructed to light their lanterns and then participate in timed releases, sending flotillas of lanterns simultaneously into the sky to be carried by the wind. Launching a lantern with thousands of others seems to be a wonderful expression of hope and cooperation. Participants help create a magical event. 

I will probably have to go out of state to participate. This is not something you can do yourself and it must be carefully monitored because of there is a danger of fire. Perhaps you can find a festival near you and send your aspirations skyward.

Play safe and have fun.