As Lakes Entrance prepares to glow for Lakes Lights 2025 this weekend the spirit of unity and collaboration among local hospitality and retail businesses is shining just as brightly as the lanterns.
In a show of collaboration and shared purpose, local business owners and staff gathered this week in front of the iconic footbridge for a group photo that represents something much bigger than an event; it marks a proud and united
Lakes Entrance business community standing together to welcome
thousands of visitors this Saturday night, July 12.
Nearly 40 local food venues, including cafés, restaurants, pubs, takeaway shops and food vans, will be open and ready to serve on the night, offering everything from fish and chips to burgers, crepes, barbecue, lamb rolls and famous donuts. Importantly, this year’s Eat Local at Lakes Lights initiative ensures the spotlight is placed firmly on the businesses that power the town year-round.
But it doesn’t stop there as many retail stores are opening late too, with traders along Myer Street and The Esplanade creating an inviting and festive atmosphere for visitors to explore and enjoy. The Lakes Lights event has grown into a celebration of community, and the local businesses are at the heart of it all.
“This is Lakes Entrance coming together at its best,” Sharen Cameron, chair of LEADA Business, Tourism and Events, said.
“We’re showing that when we unite and put our local businesses first, we can create an unforgettable experience for visitors and build something long-lasting for our town.”
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To help visitors navigate the wealth of options, LEADA BTE has created a Lakes Lights Food Map, showcasing all venues open on the night. Volunteers will be stationed throughout the event precinct to hand out maps and offer friendly advice on where to eat, drink, and shop.
“The message is simple, come for the parade. Stay for the food. Support the locals,” Sharen said.
Community members are encouraged to get involved. If you would like to help hand out maps or greet visitors with a smile, you can send a message to the LEADA Facebook page or pop into any local business participating in Lakes Lights to leave your contact details.
“This is more than just a festival, it is a town standing tall, proud, and ready to shine,” Sharen said.
The Lakes Lights festival will be held from 5pm to 9pm with the lantern parade beginning at the Slipway at 6pm and proceeding across the footbridge to a winter wonderland on the shores of the lake.
Wander through glowing enclaves of giant artist-made lanterns, projection art, ethereal soundscapes and roving performers as the Lakes Entrance foreshore is transformed into a magical world inspired by Guardians of Nature.
The area around the rotunda
will have live music and fire pits to keep warm.
Lakes Lights is a free event, however you must book in advance. To help spread out the crowd and keep the experience enjoyable for all, there are allocated time slots to cross the footbridge.
