Destination Asia Festival at Morton Arboretum

The Morton Arboretum hosts Destination Asia Festival Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 4100 Illinois Route 53 in Lisle. Festival hours run 5:30–9 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday along accessible paths near the Visitor Center, Meadow Lake Trail, and Conifer Walk.

Friday is the lantern night. Cranes of Peace origami and lantern making run 5:30–7:45 p.m.; the Toro Nagashi ceremony on Meadow Lake starts at 8:00 p.m. Viewing is included with Arboretum admission. Personalized lantern releases are $12 while supplies last, with a 7:45 p.m. pickup deadline. Weekend programming adds performances, food, and Prairie State Bonsai Society exhibitions (listed through 4:30 p.m. both days). Online general admission saves $2 per ticket versus gate pricing.

When: July 31–August 2, 2026 (Fri 5:30–9 p.m.; Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Where: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532

Buy Arboretum admission and lanterns in advance on the official Destination Asia page, and check workshop registration if you want sumi-e or bonsai classes.