Community Lantern Building Workshops

In the week leading up to the Morningside Lights illuminated procession, we come together on the stage of Miller Theatre (116th and Broadway) to build dozens of handmade large-scale lanterns, step by step, layer by layer. Discover the steps of the process below, and sign up for a free workshop to join in collaboration.

Lanterns take shape in a collaborative building process from start to finish. Each lantern passes through different hands during the week, highlighting the creativity of its makers at every stage.

Work alongside Morningside Lights’ artistic directors, Alex Kahn and Sophia Michahelles, innovators in the world of processional art. Workshops are open to anyone, with tasks geared toward older kids (10+) and adults.
No experience is necessary - one will be provided!

2: Cover forms base layer of white paper and cheesecloth

3: Apply base layer of white tissue to smooth & diffuse light