Know Before You Go


2016 Lantern Parade_112016 Lantern Parade_692016 SS Lantern Parade_17


EVERYTHING TO KNOW BEFORE YOU JOIN US TO TAKE IT TO THE RIVER!

Q: Do I need a lantern to walk in the parade?
A: The Lantern Parade celebrates creativity. It’s more fun if you have one, but if you prefer to leave your hands free, you are still welcome to cheer us on along the parade route.

Q: What kind of lantern should I bring?
A: The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your own lantern! We recommend using paper lanterns and LED/battery powered lights. Check out these photos of lanterns people have made for past parades if you need some inspiration. Please, no fire and no flying lanterns!

Q: How long is the parade route? Can I bring my kids?
A: The Lantern Parade is a family-friendly event. The parade route is .7 miles long. It is a walking parade, so good walking shoes are a must.  
 
Q: Do I need to register to walk in the parade? 
A: Nope, just show up with your lantern at Steel Canyon Golf Club where the parade will start.  

Q: Is Morgan Falls Overlook Park closed for the parade?
A: The park will close at 6:00pm on Saturday, June 15th for the event.

Q: What time do I need to be at the start line?
A: We will begin gathering at 7:30pm – the parade will step off at 9:00pm! Refreshments and entertainment for the kids will be available in the Steel Canyon parking lot before the start of the parade.  

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: We love our fur-babies, but this is a people parade. For the safety of both pets and people, we ask that you leave your pets at home. Working service dogs are the exception.  

Q: Where do I park?
A: Parking is available at the Old World Pay Building (600 Morgan Falls Rd. Sandy Springs, GA 30350) and at the former location of Sandy Springs City Hall (7840 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, GA 30350). Parking is also available at North Springs United Methodist Church (7770 Roswell Rd, Sandy Springs, GA 30350) for $5.00. The money collected is used to support NSUMC outreach programs. All parking lots are a short walk to Steel Canyon Golf Club, so wear your walking shoes. Limited shuttle service will also be running from the Old World Pay parking lot to Steel Canyon.

Q: How do I get back to my car from Morgan Falls Overlook Park?
A: You can walk to your car (you'll get your steps in!), or take the shuttle back. Shuttle service will begin running from Morgan Falls Overlook Park to the old World Pay building at 9:45pm.

Q: What happens when I get to Morgan Falls Overlook Park?
A: High Country Outfitter paddlers will escort Alice, the 25-foot albino alligator lantern, Big Mama Sandy the turtle, and Jeremiah the bullfrog accompanied by his lilies, to the river for a floating parade. Don’t miss this riveting light display. 

Q: Is it ok to bring a bike?
A: There will be a lot of people on the parade route. For safety reasons, no bikes on the parade route.

Q: How many people do you think will attend this year’s lantern parade?
A: We don’t know for sure, but are planning for large numbers. Last year, we were joined by several thousand new friends. 

Q: Are medical personnel present?
A: Yes! Members of Sandy Springs Fire and Rescue will be located in Morgan Falls Overlook Park.  We also are supported by Sandy Springs Police. 

Q: Can I fly my drone?
A: Due to the large number of participants expected, including children, for safety reasons, drones are not permitted. 
 
Q: Will there be bathrooms?
A: Bathrooms will be available at the start line, Steel Canyon Golf Club, and at the park.  Trash cans are also available at the park, so we can keep the park clean and ready for play the next day. 

Q: Are any streets closed?   
A: A portion of Morgan Falls Road will be closed during the event.  The road closure will begin at the curve, once you pass Adair Apartment Homes.  Residents who live along Morgan Falls will be able to get into their community. 
 
Q: Can I set up a table and sell or promote my thing?
A: No outside vendors are permitted.  

Q: Is the parade route wheelchair accessible?
A: Unfortunately, the parade route is not wheelchair accessible. The parade route is .7 miles down and back. During the parade, the route portion of the road will be closed with no shuttle service to the park.

SAFETY NOTES
1.    Please stay off the retaining walls located along the parade route.
2.    Do not stand, lean-on, or prop anything along the wooden fences in the park. 
3.    No drones.
4.    No pets.  

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