China Lights at Boerner Botanical Gardens (Hales Corners)

Experience an evening of glowing artistry at this spectacular lantern festival. Over 40 handcrafted displays transform the gardens into an illuminated wonderland centered around the theme "Legends Come Alive," featuring scenes from ancient Chinese traditions, magical ocean worlds, and fantastical settings. The gardens stay open from 5:30 to 10:00 PM, giving your family flexibility to arrive when it works best for you. Throughout the evening, live performances bring extra energy to your visit—Asian folk art and acrobatics take the stage at 6:15 PM, 7:30 PM, and 8:45 PM. Kids and adults alike can interact with illuminated displays, becoming part of the experience themselves. A free audio guide available through the STQRY app on your phone shares the stories and details of each lantern display at your own pace. Two on-site food courts offer snacks, meals, and beverages, so you can grab a bite without leaving the gardens. This experience welcomes visitors of all ages and works well for families looking for something both beautiful and engaging.