Thousands of lanterns float on the water aglow with hopes, dreams and memories as soothing music plays in the background while the sun sets. This is the vibe of the Water Lantern Festival , which returns to Eisenhower Park in East Meadow on Sept. 13.

“The event is rooted in connection and community,” Nate Sorensen, vice president of festival operations, said. “It kind of has a backyard barbecue feel early on. Once the lantern launch hits, that’s when things become more cinematic and emotional. It’s really cool to see that shift.”

The four-hour, rain or shine event has different sides to it. Here’s what the Water Lantern Festival is all about and how it flows.

A festive opening

The first few hours of the festival are playful. Live music plays as folks bring their own picnic food and

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