More than 5000 people rugged up and embraced the chill on Saturday night as Lakes Lights transformed the Lakes Entrance foreshore into an illuminated wonderland.
The spectacular turnout cemented the event’s place as one of the signature drawcards of the ongoing East Gippsland Winter Festival.
Despite the winter cold, visitors from across Gippsland, Melbourne, and interstate gathered to experience an unforgettable evening of light, art, music and community celebration.
The festivities kicked off at the historic Slipway precinct, where live music, local food vendors and the iconic Lakes Entrance Sea Hags created a vibrant festival atmosphere.
The night truly came alive as a crowd of more than 1000 community members carrying handmade lanterns formed the much-loved lantern parade, led by the Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade.
Crossing the bridge, visitors stepped into the ‘Gardens of the Galaxy’ —an enchanting landscape featuring artist-made lanterns, immersive projection art, interactive light installations and roaming performers.
Festival director Adam Bloem said the massive attendance demonstrated the growing appetite for unique winter experiences in East Gippsland.
“It was incredible to see thousands of people come together on a cold winter night to celebrate creativity, community, and our beautiful region,” Mr Bloem said.
This year’s event marked the introduction of a modest $5 entry fee, aimed at supporting the long-term delivery of the festival and providing employment opportunities for local artists and creatives.
The crowds provided a major boost to local traders, with restaurants, cafés and food vendors enjoying a bustling evening as festivalgoers explored the township.
“Lakes Lights is a huge team effort with many different artists, organisations, local businesses and volunteers contributing,” Mr Bloem said.
“Just over 45 per cent of attendees came from outside the East Gippsland Shire, so it’s a great boost for local businesses, and the atmosphere throughout the evening was simply magical.”
The VIP Experience proved popular once again, offering guests exclusive early access to the illuminated installations alongside local food and beverages, all enjoyed from the vantage point of the Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club balcony.
The East Gippsland Winter Festival continues until July 19 with dozens of events still to run across the region.
Upcoming activities in Lakes Entrance and Metung include the Night Frocks exhibition, Becoming: Stories and Songs at Iceworks, Eat or be Eaten on Lake Tyers, and Christmas in July Drag Bingo at Albert & Co.
The Kalimna Hotel will host a Neon 80s Bash and Paint and Sip nights, while other regional highlights include the Metung Winter Market, a Wine Bag Workshop at Green Studio, Garden to Ocean dining at Sodafish, and the Metung Bloodhounds Op Shop Ball at Swan Reach.
More photos pages 8 and 9
