Lantern Rite is one of Genshin Impact’s most beloved annual events—and if leaks are correct, the 2026 Lantern Rite in Version 6.3 is shaping up to be one of the most content-packed editions to date. From premium skins to a free character and even a possible Liyue map expansion, this celebration might be more than just fireworks and festive music.
Here’s everything we know so far, based on information shared by Raiden Shotgun on YouTube, including event timing, expected skins, generous rewards, and what this could mean for Genshin’s evolving story.
When Is Lantern Rite 2026 Happening?
Lantern Rite typically coincides with Lunar New Year, and Version 6.3 is expected to run from January 7 to February 17, 2026, if HoYoverse sticks to its usual 6-week patch cycle.
Key Dates to Watch:
- Lantern Rite Main Event Start: Likely around January 25, 2026
- Lunar New Year: Early February
- Version 6.3 Duration: January 7 – February 17, 2026
This will be the prime window for major reruns, new cosmetics, and possibly the debut of Neuvillette’s skin and Lan Yan’s first appearance.
Premium Skins: Neuvillette and Cloud Retainer
⭐ 5-Star Skin: Neuvillette
Leaks strongly suggest that Neuvillette will receive his first five-star skin during Lantern Rite 2026. It’s a significant milestone, making him only the second male character to receive a five-star skin after Diluc.
What We Know:
- Color Palette: White, gray, and gold
- VFX Upgrade: His signature hydro beam becomes a red lightning-like burst
- Visual Overhaul: Expected to include new animations, effects, and possibly idle poses
This kind of treatment has been reserved for major characters—and with Neuvillette’s popularity and flashy kit, it’s a fitting addition.
⭐ 4-Star Skin: Cloud Retainer (Xianyun)
Recently made playable in Version 4.4, Cloud Retainer (Xianyun) is also reportedly getting her first skin. This thematically fits Lantern Rite perfectly, as she’s a Liyue Adeptus and has direct lore ties to the event’s setting.
- Likely a Paid Skin: Based on previous 4-star skin releases
- Style & Visuals: Still unconfirmed, but expected to reflect her Adeptus heritage
Free Skin: Lan Yan
Perhaps the most surprising leak is the rumor of a free skin for Lan Yan, a new 4-star character from Liyue expected to debut during the event. If true, this would mark the first time a character receives a skin at launch.
- Follows Tradition: Previous free skins were given to Liyue characters like Ningguang, Xingqiu, and Xiangling
- Likely to Be a Reward: Tied to Festive Fever milestones or other event activities
Event Rewards: Free Pulls, Characters, and More
Lantern Rite is known for being one of the most generous events of the year—and 2026 looks no different.
✅ What to Expect:
- 20 Free Intertwined Fates
- 10 from login event
- 10 from a 5-day mail mini-event
- 1,000+ Primogems
- Earned through quests and festive milestones
- Festive Fever Milestones
- Rewards include Hero’s Wit, Mora, Ascension materials, Enhancement Ore
- Free Liyue 4-Star Selector
- Past options included Beidou, Xiangling, Xingqiu, and Yunjin
- Lan Yan will likely be included if she debuts during the event
Rumored Liyue Map Expansion: Blackcliff Forge
In one of the most exciting rumors, Lantern Rite 2026 might also introduce a Liyue map expansion.
The Details:
- New Subregion: Blackcliff Forge
- Described As: A remote smelting and mining hub mentioned in lore and weapon descriptions
- Timing Makes Sense: Lantern Rite is the perfect moment to revisit Liyue’s narrative and landscape
This expansion may be part of the multi-regional approach for the Nodcry arc, meaning even though we’re moving into a new story era, regions like Liyue will still get meaningful content updates.
Why Neuvillette During Lantern Rite?
While it might seem odd for a Fontaine character to receive a skin during a Liyue-centric event, it’s not without precedent. Lantern Rite has featured:
- Ayaka’s kimono skin
- Lisa’s Sumeru-themed outfit
Clearly, HoYoverse sees Lantern Rite as prime real estate for high-visibility content, and Neuvillette is one of Genshin’s most iconic and profitable characters to date. His skin will likely boost sales and engagement during one of the year’s biggest updates.
Version 6.3: A Major Turning Point?
Lantern Rite 2026 isn’t just a celebration—it could mark a major milestone for Genshin Impact’s evolving storyline. With:
- Fontaine’s arc wrapping up
- Natlan on the horizon
- Liyue potentially returning to focus
- New story themes emerging (especially with the Four Shades and Lunar mechanics)
Version 6.3 might become more than a holiday patch—it could bridge Teyvat’s past and future, setting the stage for multi-regional updates and new game mechanics.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Lantern Rite in Version 6.3 is shaping up to be one of the most content-rich patches Genshin Impact has ever had. Between the debut of premium skins, a free 4-star character, generous pulls, and a possible map expansion, it’s clear that HoYoverse is pulling out all the stops.
Whether you’re saving for Neuvillette’s skin, excited to explore Blackcliff Forge, or just logging in for your 20 free pulls, this Lantern Rite is not one to miss.
For more updates on Genshin Impact events, character guides, and meta changes, check out ExploreGenshin.gg
Source: Raiden Shotgun on YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is Lantern Rite 2026 happening?
A: Likely during Version 6.3, from January 7 to February 17, with the main event starting around January 25.
Q: Is Neuvillette really getting a 5-star skin?
A: According to leaks, yes. It will include a full VFX overhaul and is expected to be released during Lantern Rite 2026.
Q: Will there be free pulls during Lantern Rite?
A: Yes. Based on past events, players can expect 20 Intertwined Fates, over 1,000 Primogems, and other rewards.
Q: Who is getting the free 4-star skin?
A: Lan Yan, a new Liyue 4-star debuting during the event, is rumored to receive a free skin at launch.
Q: What is Blackcliff Forge?
A: A long-rumored area in Liyue that may be added to the map in Version 6.3 as part of the Lantern Rite update.
Q: Is Cloud Retainer (Xianyun) getting a skin?
A: Yes, leaks suggest she will receive a paid 4-star skin as part of the celebration.
