Lantern Walk

Shine a Light on Pedestrian Safety

October is national Pedestrian Safety Month. In 2021, Springfield started holding annual Lantern Walks to draw attention to our most vulnerable road users – in fun and educational way.

Organized through the pedestrian safety program SGF Yields, the City of Springfield partners with neighborhoods to organize the Lantern Walks. Neighbors, schools and families are encouraged to build and decorate luminaries ahead of the event. On the first Saturday in October, starting at sunset, residents stroll with their illuminated lanterns along a designated route. Along the way, there are stations where children learn about safe walking habits, drivers learn about crosswalk laws and parents are encouraged to actively practice safe street crossings with their children. Residents along the route can help make the autumn walk especially beautiful by placing lights along the sidewalks and greeting the children parading with their beautiful lanterns.