Glowing Ice Lanterns Basket

A magical winter craft where water, flowers, and a tiny light freeze into a glowing ice lantern that sparkles like a fairy house.

Ages 3-615 min setup + overnight freezing prep

What you'll need

2 empty plastic containers or yogurt cups per lantern (one small, one large)
Fresh edible flowers, petals, or tiny fern leaves
Water
Tape
Battery-operated LED tea light (no real flame)
A tray or towel for display

How to make it

1
Fill the larger container halfway with water.
2
Float flower petals and tiny leaves on the surface — press them gently against the sides so they show through the ice.
3
Place the smaller container inside the larger one and tape it in the center. This creates the hollow space for the candle.
4
Fill the gap between the two containers with more water, almost to the top.
5
Freeze overnight, or place outside if the weather is below freezing.
6
The next day, run warm water over the outside of the large container and twist the small inner cup free.
7
Turn the lantern upside-down and tap gently until the ice cylinder slides out.
8
Place the LED tea light on the tray and set the ice lantern over it.
9
Dim the lights and watch the frozen flowers glow like stained glass.

Tip

Use edible flowers like pansies or violets so little explorers can safely touch. For extra color, add a drop of food coloring to the water before freezing.