KALAMAZOO, Mich. – The company that was planning on bringing a festival that releases hundreds of floating lanterns to Berlin Raceway in Marne is changing locations.
The Lantern Fest will now be held at the Kalamazoo Speedeway, according to event organizers.
When the event was first announced for Marne, we told you that there were several residents who weren’t crazy about having lanterns with open flames flying over their homes and yards. The fire chief was also investigating the event and hadn’t given his approval to city commissioners.
3,000 to 5,000 people are expected for the event in September. Organizers say they have permission and a signed contract, but don’t have permit yet because it isn’t available.
They say the flames burn themselves out before hitting the ground and the lanterns are 100% bio-degradable. They also have a dedicated team to pick up about 90% of the lanterns afterwards.
The Lantern Fest website has the Kalamazoo date listed as September 26.
