Call for Participation for Lantern Competition 2025

Competition Overview

The lantern competition takes place every year as part of the December festivals and the Traditional Festival of Light. On Competition Day (Saturday, 06th December 2025), participants present their lanterns to the judges. Each participant has an opportunity to present and explain their lantern to the judges and the audience in an exhibition-style set-up.

The objectives of the lantern competition are as follows:

• To continue the tradition associated with the annual celebration of the Festival of Light, and the heralding of the Christmas Season.
• To encourage the participation of persons from the artistic community in the construction of innovative lanterns.
• To foster the involvement of a wide cross-section of the population where the tradition of lantern making can be thought of as an item or activity that can be infused into celebrations such as birthdays, weddings, funerals and commercial house activities.

Who can enter:

• Artistes, Creatives
• Schools/Students
• Community individuals, Groups and organisations
• Business/Commercial Houses

Categories of Lanterns

Lanterns can be entered under one of three categories. In each category, participants are encouraged to include an aspect of originality and creativity. The three categories are:

• Traditional – This category refers to lanterns that represent typical or traditional structures; usually old-time houses and churches are entered in this category. Old-style structures, such as clocks and lamps, represent the lanterns most seen in this category. Lanterns entered under this category are made from cardboard and traditional lantern building materials. To be considered a Traditional Lantern, entries MUST depict the aforementioned traditional architecture/ technology AND be constructed traditionally using cardboard.
• National – This category refers to lanterns that depict a typical St. Lucian THEME or CONCEPT, which fosters a sense of nationalism and pride. They can be national symbols or features of the St. Lucian landscape or other aspects of St. Lucian social, environmental and cultural life. Typical lanterns entered in this category are the Pitons, the National Cultural Centre, the La Rose and La Marguerite flowers and the St. Lucian Parrot. Entries under this category are heavy on the depiction of the THEME and are not assessed based on the materials used to construct the lantern.
• Contemporary/Modern – This category of lanterns features lanterns that represent current, up-to-date themes and ideas. New or innovative techniques/ways of making lanterns are encouraged under this category, including the use of alternative materials and the incorporation of technology and other modern elements to mechanise and enhance the lantern.

Rules and Regulations

1. Each participant is allowed to enter a maximum of two (2) lanterns per category.
2. Lanterns MUST be portable (i.e. must be carried by one person).
3. Measurements – Dimensions are not restricted if they do not impede guideline #2.
4. Themes being depicted must be easily identifiable to viewers.
5. Lanterns MUST be battery-powered only. Battery packs should not be exposed.
6. Lanterns should NOT have been entered in previous competitions.
7. NO commercial or other logos should be used on lanterns; EXCEPT in the case of corporate entity entries.
8. The description & design concept of each lantern MUST be submitted when registering and at least 24 hours prior to competition day.
9. Following the Competition, all participants should attend the Festival of Light Ceremony at the Derek Walcott Square on Friday, 12th December 2025, from 7:30 pm to be part of the Lantern Parade.

Judging Criteria

• Creativity & originality: Unique design, imaginative concept, and artistic expression as well as effectiveness of execution of concept. (20 marks)
• Craftsman & construction: Assessment of construction; Quality of finish (20marks).
• Portability: Structure is easily carried by one person. (10marks)
• Use of material: Effective and creative use of materials (traditional or recycled/alternative) which enhance the overall build and design while giving environmental consideration. (10 marks)
• Lighting Effect- Quality and consistency of illumination using a safe lighting source that enhances the design. (15 marks)
• Theme Interpretation- Lantern design clearly reflects the submission category and tells the story of the selected theme. (15 marks)
• Overall Aesthetic Appeal: Lantern is visually impactful, artistically appealing to viewers and possesses overall attractiveness when displayed (10 marks)

Prizes

Prizes are awarded per category as follows:

• 17 years & Under (1st Place – $500.00, 2nd Place – $300.00 and 3rd Place – $200.00)
• 18 years & Over (1st Place – $1000.00, 2nd Place – $500.00 and 3rd Place – $300.00)
• Overall Winner – $1,500.00

Registration Link: Cultural Development Foundation: December Festivals Lantern Competition 2025 – Fill out form