By Travis Hudgons, contributor
Colorful, handcrafted, LED-illuminated lanterns danced down the BeltLine on Sept. 12. Thousands of participants gathered near the Krog Street Markets and made their way down the Eastside Atlanta Beltline trail to the finale at in Piedmont Park.
This year’s parade was hosted by the Krewe of the Grateful Gluttons, whose mission is to get you to come out and play.
The Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade makes its way through the thousands of onlookers at the “Murder” Kroger BeltLine entrance in Old Fouth Ward. Photo by Travis Hudgons
These aren’t the lanterns you’re looking for. Photo by Travis Hudgons
While many lanterns were whimsical and fantasy-based, some carried a more serious message. Photo by Travis Hudgons
Beer Pong anyone? Photo by Travis Hudgons
The Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade had thousands of participants and thousands more gathered to watch. Photo by Travis Hudgons
People and cultures came together during this spirit-lifting event. Photo by Travis Hudgons
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These ghostly creations swayed beautifully down the BeltLine. Photo by Travis Hudgons
Lanterns lit the way for many of the thousands of the marchers. Photo by Travis Hudgons
Many of the lanterns were themed, like this Pac-Man inspired set—complete with ghosts, pellets and sound effects. Photo by Travis Hudgons
The clear night sky served as the perfect canvas to showcase the colorful creations. Photo by Travis Hudgons
Who needs Uber? When you can piggyback your way down the 2-mile parade route. Photo by Travis Hudgons
The Seed & Feed Marching Abominables was one of the bands that provided the soundtrack for the evening. Photo by Travis Hudgons
Some parade participants chose to wear their lights. Photo by Travis Hudgons