Fortnite players can unlock the new Aaliyah skin completely free during the Lantern Fest 2026 event. The skin is available as a reward through the Reload Lantern Fest Cup scheduled for March 3rd, 2026. Here is everything you need to know about the Aaliyah skin, how to earn it without spending V-Bucks, and what other free rewards are up for grabs during the event.
Who Is Aaliyah in Fortnite Lantern Fest 2026?
Aaliyah is the official mascot of Fortnite’s Lantern Fest 2026 event. She follows in the footsteps of Anwar and Noorah, who served as the mascots for last year’s Lantern Fest.
The Aaliyah skin features a teal and gold outfit with Middle Eastern-inspired design elements. She wears a red geometric belt, gold teardrop headchain and earrings, and a green pendant necklace. Her look is completed by a pair of dark mechanical gloves that give the outfit a combat-ready feel alongside its festive style.
While Aaliyah will eventually appear in the Fortnite Item Shop as a paid skin, players have the opportunity to earn her for free before she goes on sale.
How to Unlock the Aaliyah Skin for Free
The only way to get the Aaliyah skin for free is by competing in the Reload Lantern Fest Cup on March 3rd, 2026. This is a one-time competitive event, so players who want the skin at no cost should not miss this date.
Here are the key details for the cup:
- It is a Duos tournament, meaning players need a partner to compete.
- The cup is open to all regions with no rank requirement to enter.
- Each elimination earns 2 points during matches.
- A Victory Royale awards 60 points.
Players who score high enough by the end of the tournament will earn the Aaliyah skin for free. Practicing in Reload mode ahead of the event is a good way to prepare.
Free Spray and Emoticon Rewards from Reload Quests
Even if the Reload Lantern Fest Cup feels too competitive, there are still free cosmetic rewards available through Reload Quests. These quests run from February 19th to February 25th, 2026, and players must complete them with their 8-player team.
| Quests Completed | Reward |
|---|---|
| 3 Quests | Bring It Spray |
| 8 Quests | Love the Game Emoticon |
These quests take place in the 8-player Reload Teams mode, which is available from February 19 through March 18, 2026. Ranked mode is not available during this period.
Anwar and Noorah Bundle Also Available
Players who missed the Anwar and Noorah skins from last year’s Lantern Fest can now pick up the Radiant Moon Bundle in the Fortnite Item Shop. The bundle is priced at 1,800 V-Bucks and includes both skins.
Key Dates to Remember
- February 19 to February 25, 2026 – Reload Quests active for free spray and emoticon rewards
- February 19 to March 18, 2026 – 8-player Reload Teams mode available
- March 3, 2026 – Reload Lantern Fest Cup (chance to earn the Aaliyah skin for free)
The Aaliyah skin is one of the standout additions to Fortnite’s Lantern Fest 2026. Players looking to add her to their locker without spending any V-Bucks should mark March 3rd on their calendar and start practicing in Reload mode now.
Last Updated: February 19, 2026