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 07th December 2024) 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.
Who can enter:
- Artistes
- Schools/Students
- Community individuals, Groups and Organizations
- 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, thatched houses and lamps represent the lanterns most seen in this category.
- National – This category refers to lanterns that depict a typical St. Lucian theme or concept. 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.
- Contemporary/Modern – This category of lantern features lanterns that represent current, up-to-date themes and ideas. In this category lanterns that are modern versions of houses, buildings, etc. can be constructed. New or innovative ways of making lanterns are also encouraged under this category.
Rules and Regulations
- Each participant is allowed to enter a maximum of two (2) lanterns per category.
- Lanterns MUST be portable (ie, must be carried by one person).
- Features MUST be easily seen by viewers.
- Lanterns MUST be battery powered only. Battery packs should not be exposed.
- Lanterns should NOT have been entered in previous competitions.
- NO commercial or other logos should be used on lanterns.
- Measurements
– Length must not exceed three (3) feet.
– Width must not exceed three (3) feet.
– Height must not exceed three (3) feet. - The description & design concept of each lantern MUST be submitted when registering.
- Following the Competition, all participants should attend the Festival of Light Ceremony at the Derek Walcott Square on Thursday 12th December 2014 from 7:30pm to be part of the Lantern Parade. Winners will be announced prior to this on 09th December 2024 at NTN Studios.
Judging Criteria
- Creativity & Innovation: Use of Imagination; Execution of concept. (25 marks)
- Effectiveness of Colour: Applying colour in a harmonious way for balance; Blending of colours. (20marks)
- Portability/Portrayal: Carried by one person; Structure or form depicts concept selected; Visual impact; Effectiveness of lighting. (20marks)
- Theme Content Relevance: Understanding of the concept and how it relates to the title of the lantern. (10marks)
- Craftsmanship: Assessment of construction; Quality of finish; Neatness. (25marks)
Prizes
Prizes are awarded per category as follows:
- 17 years & Under
-1st Place – $500.00
-2nd Place – $300.00
-3rd Place – $200.00 - 18 years & Over
-1st Place – $800.00
-2nd Place – $500.00
-3rd Place – $300.00 - Overall Winner – $1,500.00
Please complete Registration Form: https://forms.office.com/r/v3WHE4zbsB
For more information contact Cultural Development Foundation
at 758 458 9021 or (758) 731-5851