The mystical magic lantern in Spokane transports people to a world of enchantment and wonder. This unique form of entertainment has captivated audiences for years, offering a truly immersive experience that blurs the lines between reality and imagination. Located in the heart of downtown Spokane, the magic lantern is a hidden gem that has become a beloved fixture in the city's cultural scene. Stepping inside its doors, visitors are transported back in time to a bygone era where storytelling was a cherished art form. The magic lantern itself is a beautifully crafted device that combines the elements of a projector and a camera obscura. Its origins can be traced back to ancient China, where it was used as a tool for teaching and entertainment.
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Since the show is funded through generous support from community sponsors and produced by the non-profit volunteer group The Friends of Manito Park, this family-favorite Spokane holiday tradition is free for the public to enjoy during the holidays. This Christmas, the Spokane County Fair Expo Center hosts Northwest Winterfest, the largest and brightest illuminated lantern display and cultural celebration in the Pacific Northwest.
Its origins can be traced back to ancient China, where it was used as a tool for teaching and entertainment. Over the years, the magic lantern has evolved, incorporating new technologies and techniques to create stunning visuals and captivating narratives. The magic lantern show begins with the dimming of lights and the soft hum of the projector.
2022 Guide to Christmas Lights in Spokane
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Merriment and holiday joy is once again here to decorate the Spokane community with Christmas on its way and Santa Claus himself soon coming to town. The magic of the season is already beginning to spread as beautifully decorated Christmas trees go up around town, and brilliant Christmas light shows illuminate the winter sky and capture the magic and wonder of the 2022 season in and around Spokane.
Orchard Park will be transformed during Spokane Winter Glow Spectacular and even the animals will light the way for Santa. Photo courtesy: Spokane Winter Glow Spectacular
Winter Glow Spectacular
20298 E Indiana Avenue, Liberty Lake
Since 2014 Winter Glow Spectacular has been lighting up the community and bringing the spirit of the holidays to residents of Spokane. This year Winter Glow transforms Orchard Park into a festival of light displays from now until January 1 of the new year. This family-favorite tradition continues to remain free to the public thanks to generous donations so all may experience the magic and wonder of Christmas.
Magical lanterns created with the Christmas spirit await at Northwest Winterfest. Photo courtesy: Northwest Winterfest
Northwest Winterfest
404 N Havana, Spokane Valley
509.477.2772
This Christmas, the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center hosts Northwest Winterfest, the largest and brightest illuminated lantern display and cultural celebration in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll feel like you’re at the North Pole as you explore this indoor, self-guided, accessible walking tour with a path beautifully decorated by dozens of authentically crafted lighted lanterns. Each of these merry and bright masterpieces celebrates the spirit of the winter season, the holidays it brings, and the traditions from cultures of the world all across the globe. Great food and beverages are also available during the event that runs every Friday through Sunday from December 2 until January 1 (except Christmas day, of course). Tickets are already on sale for this family-fun Christmas event, and children ten and under receive free admission.
Manito Park will go from a garden to the magical North Pole during its annual Manito Holiday Lights. Photo courtesy: Spokane Parks and Recreation
Manito Holiday Lights
1702 S Grand Blvd., Spokane
509.456.8038
Manito Park is beautifully decorated for the holiday season during its Manito Holiday Lights show. Guests can enjoy the brilliant display of lights via drive-thru from December 9 to 12 or walk-thru from December 13 to 18. The festivities begin near the Park Bench Café, where visitors can follow the route for one-half mile of lights and eventually exit onto 21 st Avenue. Since the show is funded through generous support from community sponsors and produced by the non-profit volunteer group The Friends of Manito Park, this family-favorite Spokane holiday tradition is free for the public to enjoy during the holidays.
Cruise along to the North Pole this holiday season during Coeur d’Alene Cruises’ Journey to the North Pole. Photo courtesy: Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises
Journey to the North Pole
115 S 2 nd Street, Coeur d’Alene
208.292.5670
Cruise the waters and Journey to the North Pole this winter season during one of Idaho’s famous Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises. During this unforgettable holiday experience, guests will depart on their respective cruises at either 5:30, 6:30, or 7:30 p.m. and be taken on a magical adventure across sparkling waters to view more than 1.5 million twinkling holiday lights spread across 250 holiday light displays. This dazzling extravaganza of vibrant colors lights the way as you and your family head to Santa’s waterfront toy workshop. There, you’ll meet Santa himself, Mrs. Claus, the elves, and even the Grinch! Children will be delighted to know they’ve made Santa’s nice list as he greets each and every child by name. The magical evening concludes with a brilliant display of fireworks lighting up the night sky.
It really is the most wonderful time of year. To make it even more special for city residents, these magical light displays brighten Spokane’s winter skies this holiday season, illuminating the way to Christmas 2022 and guiding us the rest of the way into the new year.
20298 E Indiana Avenue, Liberty Lake
As the first image flickers to life on the screen, the audience is transported to a world of fantasy and adventure. Through a combination of hand-painted glass slides, music, and storytelling, the magic lantern brings to life tales of mythical creatures, far-off lands, and incredible heroes. The magic lantern in Spokane takes pride in its diverse range of shows, appealing to audiences of all ages and interests. From classic fairy tales to historical reenactments, each show is carefully curated to engage and entertain its viewers. The magic lantern also hosts special events and interactive workshops, allowing visitors to explore the art of storytelling and create their own magical worlds. What sets the magic lantern in Spokane apart from other forms of entertainment is its ability to foster a sense of wonder and imagination. In a world dominated by screens and digital media, the magic lantern offers a refreshing escape, reminding us of the power of storytelling and human connection. It is a testament to the enduring magic of the arts and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. In conclusion, the mystical magic lantern in Spokane is more than just a form of entertainment. It is a portal to another world, a chance to step outside of reality and embark on a journey of the imagination. Whether you're young or old, the magic lantern offers an experience that is truly enchanting and unforgettable..
Reviews for "Rediscovering the Forgotten Magic of the Spokane Lantern"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "The mystical magic lantern in Spokane." The production felt amateur and lacked coherence. The storytelling was confusing, and the acting was subpar. It seemed like the performers were not fully committed to their roles, and as a result, the emotions did not come across effectively. Additionally, the set design and special effects were underwhelming, failing to create the magical atmosphere the show promised. Overall, I found it to be a lackluster experience.
2. Mark - 1 star - "The mystical magic lantern in Spokane" was a complete waste of time. The plot was muddled and hard to follow, leaving me confused and disconnected from the story. The acting was uninspiring, with wooden performances that failed to engage the audience. The production was also plagued with technical difficulties, with sound issues and lighting mishaps that further distracted from the already weak narrative. I had high hopes for this show, but it fell far short of my expectations.
3. Jessica - 2 stars - I had heard great things about "The mystical magic lantern in Spokane," so I was excited to see it. However, I left feeling underwhelmed and unsatisfied. The pacing of the play was off, making it difficult to stay engaged. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, and the characters lacked depth and development. The production seemed disjointed, and the transitions between scenes were clunky. Overall, it was a disappointing experience that did not live up to the hype.