Floating lanterns at Lake Junaluska honor, celebrate memories of lost loved ones

LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. (WLOS) — A growing tradition at Lake Junaluska that celebrates and illuminates the memories of loved ones will take place on Friday, July 5 with the release of floating lanterns that light up the lake.

Nancy Hood and her husband of 50 years, Rush, fell in love at Lake Junaluska years ago.

"This is water you can get close to. This is water you can feel," said Hood.

When COVID-19 hit in 2020, Fourth of July celebrations were forced to be scaled down.

What emerged, consistent with social distancing, were floating lanterns carrying names of loved ones, honoring their accomplishments and memories.

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"We needed to be on the water," said Hood. "We needed to see those lights twinkling on the lake."

Mike Huber, general manager of Lake Junaluska, says the 2020 event had even more meaning when the power in the area went out.

"It was extra special that the only lights on the lake were the lanterns," Huber said.

The lanterns have now become part of Lake Junaluska's weeklong Fourth of July activities.

It's a great way to cap off a wonderful celebration," said Huber. "[It's a] chance to just slow down, be pensive — thinking about those we love and care about," said Huber.

Nancy and Rush Hood have made dedications before to their loved ones and will again this year.

"My sister-in-law passed away about three years ago and it was the perfect opportunity to remember her," said Hood. "We also made a dedication to his mother and father and my mother and father. It was just really special to have them remembered in such a unique and wonderful way."

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Barbie Stanton said her husband died about four years ago, and he was very involved in all parts of the lake. She and her daughter, Debra, will again take the opportunity to purchase a floating lantern.

"This is one that we look forward to," Barbie said.

When you see the lights on the lake, it's like the light of my Dad's still being present here," said Debra. "There's something wonderful about [it]... It's part of nature. It's part of what makes creation," Debra said.

Huber says Lake Junaluska is a place of Christian hospitality, the floating lanterns consistent with the mission.

"All gifts are charitable contributions. All of the gifts that we receive for these floating lanterns go to expand the ministry here," Huber said. "It's become an endearing tradition. I think we'll do it year after year."

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Donations and dedications can be made online through Wednesday, July 3.

On Friday, July 5, guests can donate cash and dedicate a lantern in person between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the Harrell Center. For lanterns dedicated on Friday before the event, the dedication labels will be handwritten.

Lanterns are available to the public and can be purchased for 40 dollars.

More on donations, dedications and event information can be found here.