Saanich celebrates the coming of fall with light, culture and community in the Gordon Head neighbourhood this weekend.

Visitors can expect live music, entertainment, food trucks and a lantern loop display at Gordon Head Recreation Centre and Lambrick Park Saturday (Sept. 14) from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

"The abundance of lanterns celebrate several things, from lit up vegetables to barnyard animals and quirky birds," said Sarah Faria, events programmer for Saanich. B次元官网网址淲e have some new surprise lanterns B次元官网网址� possibly some old favourites that havenB次元官网网址檛 been seen in a while as well.B次元官网网址�

Entertainment kicks off with Lekwungen Traditional Dancers and includes the Victoria Chinese Opera Club, Furusato Dancers, Sanpaguita Dancers, Chinese Dance Victoria, Uminari Taiko, Bollywood Beats, Victoria Society of Chinese Performing Arts and Happy Drum Group.

The Wong Sheung Kung Fu Lion Dancers finish the evening.

LED lanterns are welcome, while candles are not, and the district hosts an on-site lantern making station for $5 that night.

B次元官网网址淲e have folks who can help you with the lantern,B次元官网网址� Faria said, noting supplies are different each year, so returnees will make some thing new.

Guests are encouraged to dress up and light up with the best illuminated costumes and lanterns earning prizes through the evening.

B次元官网网址淲e get some really really amazing costumes,B次元官网网址� Faria said. Many in the past featured traditional moon festival inspired and a standout last year was the illuminated bride in a long white dress. B次元官网网址淜ids come in all sorts of costumes as well.B次元官网网址�

The event typically sees about 2,000 people, with most arriving for dusk.

B次元官网网址淭hatB次元官网网址檚 when the lanterns look their best, theyB次元官网网址檙e all lit up and look spectacular.B次元官网网址�

No matter when they arrive, with limited parking at Gordon Head Recreation Centre, Faria encourages guests to consider arriving by bike or bus.

B次元官网网址淔olks can even light up their bikes if they want to,B次元官网网址� Faria said, adding that was a popular addition to last yearB次元官网网址檚 festival.

Capital Bike offers a free bike valet and Victoria Transit No. 27 and No. 28 service Feltham at Lambrick Way B次元官网网址� a short walk to the event site. 

Visit  for the full event lineup.