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The Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk are excited to bring back the 5th Annual Tampa Riverwalk Lantern Parade, in partnership with the beloved Riverfest! This glowing, family-friendly event will light up the Riverwalk from Water Works Park to Curtis Hixon Park.

This year’s parade will feature large illuminated lantern floats alongside more than 500 handmade lanterns created and carried by community members of all ages. Through workshops and partnerships with Armature Works, local businesses, and the Tampa Arts Alliance, we’re celebrating creativity, light, and community.

We’re seeking bold, bright, and fun lantern creations that are mobile, lightweight, and easy to carry—about 8–10 feet tall and under 5 feet wide. Designs should be playful and inspired by water, aquatic life, or Tampa’s unique spirit.

Artists and community groups are encouraged to apply! Selected participants will help share their creative journey through photos, videos, and possible media features. Lanterns must be weather-resistant and parade-ready for May 2, 2026.

Three selected artists will receive:
• $1,500 each for materials, transportation, and artist fees.
• Admission for two to the VIP Tent at Curtis Hixon Park during Riverfest

• 50% of the award will be paid upon approval of the proposal.
• The remaining 50% will be paid within 30 days of the event’s completion.
• Artists are responsible for transporting their lanterns/floats to and from the parade.
• Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk are not responsible for lanterns/floats after the parade.

Proposals will be evaluated based on:
• Creativity, originality, and alignment with the parade’s themes.
• Feasibility and mobility of the design.
• Demonstrated ability to produce dynamic public art within limited resources.

Artists with experience in public art, puppetry, sculpture, and performance are strongly encouraged to apply. Proposals will be reviewed by a Selection Committee, and awards will be announced by March 6, 2026.