As we walked from the house into the arena outside, the sight was magical and breathtaking; beautiful yellow and red objects filled the black sky. It was an unforgettable moment that several years later I cannot recount anything that beautiful. That was my foremost sight and experience of sky lanterns. They never cease to enchant guests when they are used in any festival.

Sky Lanterns have come a long way. Birthed several thousand years ago in Asia, they mean different things to different people but they are a welcome part of every festival, event, anniversary or party. To some especially in its original continent of birth, they are used as a sign of good fortune, blessings, prayers for good luck, good will and to keep evil spirits at bay whereas in modern environments, they primarily serve embossing duties.

These Lanterns come in varying shapes, sizes and colours all subject to the choice of the one who is buying it. The choice of size should be dependent on the area where it is to be used. Of course like the name goes, Sky Lanterns are outdoor objects. It is let into the atmosphere into the skies and as they are watched having the sky as the background; it adds colour and an enchanting look.

These Lanterns can be used for a variety of events. Some could prefer to have it in just a party, a wedding ceremony reception, an anniversary or my favourite- a New Year's Eve celebration. Here the guests could be given markers and asked to make a wish which they would inscribe on the body of the lanterns before they are released into the air, when they eventually are, all the guests would probably just stare at the lanterns as they burn in the skies for the number of minutes they are there before making their descent, it is a magical moment.

Having Sky Lanterns are a cheaper option to fire works. Personally, I am not a fan of fire works. This is because, not only am I not comfortable with the sounds of the shots of the fireworks, they are also pollutants and in some uncontrolled areas, they could be hazardous and cause fires. The lanterns are a different option because they neither are neither noisy, hazardous nor are they pollutants. On the opposite actually, they are environmentally friendly.

The relative availability and affordability is another plus. For your festivals, you don't need to spend so much in achieving this unique and special treat these lanterns give, they are a cheaper option as compared to fireworks. As per availability, these lanterns are readily available and with a host of companies who manufacture them today, care should be taken to ensure the right quality is obtained. Some of the major components like the fuel compartment should be double checked to ensure they are in order.

Using the Sky Lanterns is an enviable option for lighting up your festivals. Guests and celebrants alike will be treated to the magical effect and beauty of these lanterns. Why not give it considerable thought when next something big is coming up.