Genshin Impact‘s most beloved annual celebration is returning with exciting surprises! Early leaks suggest that Lantern Rite 2026 will introduce the mysterious White Horse Adeptus, premium character skins for unexpected champions, and traditional rewards that make this Liyue festival the highlight of every year. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming January 2026 event based on credible leak sources.
Lantern Rite Genshin Impact 2026 Leak Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Release | January 14, 2026 (Luna IV update) |
| New 5-Star Character | White Horse Adeptus (Anemo Support) |
| New 4-Star Character | Unknown Liyue character |
| Character Skins | Neuvillette (5-star premium), Chongyun (4-star) |
| Traditional Rewards | Liyue 4-star selector, primogems, event weapons |
| Region Focus | Liyue Harbor |
| Leak Sources | Hxg Diluc, DK2, Dimbreath |
White Horse Adeptus: The Gold-Eyed Celdaon Mare
According to prominent leaker Hxg Diluc, a new character known as the White Horse Adeptus is rumored to be released as a playable character during the Luna IV version, and she is rumored to be an Anemo support. This mysterious adeptus has been referenced in Yanfei’s character stories, where she mentions “Oh, horns…” when discussing legendary figures.
The White Horse Adeptus is also known as the Gold-Eyed Celdaon Mare and was mentioned during the Lantern Rite event in version 5.3, building anticipation for her eventual debut. Some fans speculate she might be the same character mentioned in the Moonlit Bamboo Forest lore book, connecting multiple story threads across Liyue’s rich history.
As an Anemo support, she’ll likely provide crowd control, elemental reaction support, or buffing capabilities similar to other wind-element supports like Kazuha and Sucrose. Her adeptus status suggests powerful abilities rooted in ancient Liyue magic.
Surprise Skins: Neuvillette and Chongyun
Leaker DK2 has claimed that new skins for Neuvillette and Chongyun might be released during the Luna IV update. Surprisingly, Neuvillette might receive a new outfit during the Lantern Rite update instead of other Liyue characters, breaking tradition since Lantern Rite skins typically feature Liyue-exclusive champions.
Neuvillette’s Premium Skin reportedly features a white, gray, and gold design with unique red lightning effects replacing his standard Hydro beam during charged attacks. This striking visual change would make his animations stand out dramatically, justifying premium pricing.
Chongyun’s Outfit will likely be a 4-star skin, potentially obtainable through event participation or purchased at a lower price point. As a cryo exorcist from Liyue, Chongyun fits the traditional Lantern Rite skin pattern perfectly.
Previous Lantern Rite skins have gone to Xingqiu, Shenhe, and Ganyu, making Chongyun a natural progression while Neuvillette’s inclusion represents an exciting departure from convention.
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Mystery 4-Star Character
Another leaker, DK2, has claimed that a new 4-star character could be released during the next Lantern Rite update. Based on established patterns, this character will likely be from Liyue and could be included in the traditional free 4-star selector that accompanies most Lantern Rite celebrations.
The 4-star selector has become a beloved Lantern Rite tradition, allowing players to choose one Liyue 4-star character for free. If the new character is immediately added to this selector, it would provide unprecedented immediate access to fresh content.
Expected Release Timeline
Most Lantern Rite events take place during January, and based on the release schedule of each version, the Luna IV update is expected around January 14, 2026. This timing aligns perfectly with real-world Lunar New Year celebrations, maintaining Genshin Impact’s tradition of synchronizing in-game festivals with cultural holidays.
According to HoYoverse’s official roadmap, version updates follow a consistent six-week cycle, making the January 14 estimate highly reliable barring unexpected delays.
Traditional Lantern Rite Rewards
While specific reward details haven’t leaked yet, previous Lantern Rite events have offered:
- Free 4-star Liyue character selector
- 1,600+ primogems through various activities
- Crown of Insight for talent upgrades
- Event-exclusive 4-star weapon
- Festive furnishings for Serenitea Pot
- Character ascension materials
Expect similar rewards with potential additions tied to the White Horse Adeptus storyline.
For the latest gacha game events and limited-time celebration guides, check our seasonal coverage.
Important Disclaimer
Note: All information in this article is based on early leaks from sources like Hxg Diluc, DK2, and Dimbreath. Nothing is officially confirmed by HoYoverse, and details may change significantly before release. Readers should take this information with caution and await official announcements.
Leaks provide exciting previews but aren’t guaranteed. Character kits, release dates, and event features often undergo revisions during development.
Lantern Rite 2026 promises exciting new content for Genshin Impact travelers. For more leak coverage and event guides, visit Tech2Sports.
FAQs
Q: Will the White Horse Adeptus be a limited 5-star character?
A: Based on previous Lantern Rite patterns and her rumored 5-star rarity, the White Horse Adeptus will likely be a limited character available only during the Luna IV banner period. However, like all limited characters, she may receive reruns in future updates. As an Anemo support, she’ll probably appear on a character event wish banner alongside the Lantern Rite festivities, similar to how Xianyun debuted during Lantern Rite 2024.
Q: Can I get Neuvillette’s skin without owning Neuvillette?
A: Technically yes, you can purchase premium character skins without owning the character (they’ll be stored in your inventory). However, you won’t be able to use or see the skin until you obtain Neuvillette himself. Consider waiting for a Neuvillette rerun banner—likely during Fontaine-focused updates—before purchasing his premium Lantern Rite outfit. HoYoverse typically doesn’t run character reruns simultaneously with skin releases, so plan your primogem spending accordingly.
