In the heart of Las Vegas, a city known for neon lights and over-the-top spectacle, Glowfest offers a different kind of magic—intimate, immersive, and unexpectedly emotional. What began for Program Director David Valenzuela as a personal sense of disappointment at a distant lantern display evolved into a festival that blends handcrafted lanterns from Zigong artisans, interactive installations, live performances, and a lively Night Market into a story-driven journey. Visitors follow the path of a curious baby dragon as it winds through areas of light, color, and movement, moving not just past displays but through a narrative designed to spark wonder and connection. From the technical marvel of the Celestial Realm, where projection mapping meets delicate lantern craftsmanship, to the festival’s commitment to supporting local schools, Glowfest balances spectacle with heart, offering Las Vegas an experience that’s quieter, thoughtful, and deeply communal—a celebration of light, culture, and shared moments that continues to grow with each passing year.
