At Spring Grove, our staff members recognize the power of traditions and the beauty of gathering with families throughout our community to remember those we have lost. Our Lantern Lighting Ceremony is an annual event that brings families together to honor loved ones who have died with a paper lantern sendoff on Willow Water Lake. We invite families throughout Cincinnati and Hamilton County to join us for this family-friendly event.
Event Schedule
On Saturday, September 9, the 17th annual Lantern Lighting Ceremony 2023 will take place at Spring Grove Cemetery. The event begins at 5 p.m. and families can prepare their paper lanterns and enjoy live music from the Pete Wagner Band until 7:30 p.m. At this point in the evening, candles placed inside the lanterns are lit and the lanterns launched on the lake.
What to Bring
Due to the lack of seating at this event, we encourage families to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and even a picnic to make an evening of it. Food will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Enjoying the historic and beautiful grounds at Spring Grove is one of the highlights of this special commemorative event. We ask that you please keep your pets at home out of respect for the cemetery grounds. You’ll find lots of parking at the cemetery as well as shuttle service for people with disabilities from the parking lot to the lake.
Remembering Your Loved One
The purpose of this event is to honor our loved ones who have died. We provide the lanterns and shades for participants to personalize with handwritten words and hand-drawn pictures. For the use of each lantern, a $5.00 tax-deductible donation to the Spring Grove Heritage Foundation is requested. Before the lantern sendoff, be sure to pose for a photograph with your lantern. Your complimentary souvenir photo can be picked up at the end of the event.
Grief Support Resources
Taking the time to remember a loved one who has died is a healing experience. If you require additional support throughout your grief journey, contact our compassionate staff today. We can connect you with grief support services, from in-person grief counseling to online group therapy. We offer our sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time.