Lantera – More Than a Good Time: Supporting Mental Health Together

If you’ve spent any time in Wilton Manors over the past few years, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Lantera, even if you didn’t realize it. 

Maybe you danced the night away at  Come As You Are Prom, cheered on performers at Turnabout, joined the crowd at  Zombie Crawl, or celebrated the season at Santa Sip & Strut. What started as creative ways to bring people together have become some of the community’s most anticipated annual events, each one proving that having a great time can also make a meaningful difference. 

Founded in 2022, Lantera is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma and expanding access to care. Inspired by the image of a lantern, a light that helps people find their way, its guiding message, “Open Arms, Open Heart,” reflects the welcoming, judgment-free community the organization strives to create. 

That sense of connection has become Lantera’s signature. 

While its events are filled with music, costumes, laughter and unforgettable moments, they’re also helping fund mental health programs throughout South Florida. In just three years, the all-volunteer organization has raised and distributed more than $20,000 to support organizations providing counseling, crisis intervention, education and other vital mental health services. 

For Lantera, the events themselves are part of the mission. They create spaces where people can connect with friends, meet new faces and experience the sense of belonging that plays an important role in emotional well-being. Sometimes, a fun community event becomes the first step toward a conversation someone didn’t realize they needed. 

The organization is now building on that momentum as they prepare the launch of the Lantera Mental Health Fund, an initiative designed to provide direct financial assistance to individuals who need help continuing therapy and other mental health care when financial hardship becomes a barrier. 

The easiest way to support Lantera’s work is by showing up. Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning for another favorite, the organization has a full calendar of events ahead in 2026, including Come As You Are Turnabout on September 12th, Zombie Crawl on October 10th and Santa Sip & Strut on December 13th, followed by Wilton Onesie Wonderland in January 2027. 

For many, Lantera is known for hosting memorable community events. Behind every celebration, however, is a mission rooted in connection, bringing people together, supporting mental health and living its promise of Open Arms, Open Heart.