This weekend, one of the coolest events of the season will open its doors at the Ohio Expo Center.
Dragon Lights, previously known as the Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival, is back for another year of fun. 40 larger-than-life lantern sculptures will illuminate the Natural Resources Park of the Ohio Expo Center, located at 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus from November 23 through January 6.
The festival has become a holiday tradition since it began in 2016, with tens of thousands of guests walking through the massive display each year.
Powered by more than 15,000 LED lights, the celebration of light will feature the work of artisans from all over China. This year’s festival has been curated specifically with children and families in mind and interactive exhibits include a beautiful elephant whose colors can be changed by peddling a bike, color-changing swings, and an awesome light-up floor display!
“This will be the third year in a row we’ve brought the show to Columbus,” said spokesperson, Huiyuan Liu of Tianyu Arts and Culture, the organizer of Dragon Lights. “We keep coming back because each year as Ohioans embrace us with more and more warmth. Dragon Lights has quickly become part of people’s own holiday traditions as they choose to return with family and friends to marvel at the kaleidoscope of lights and colors that help them get into the holiday spirit.”
In addition to the lights, there will be performances each night, showcasing a variety of dance and entertainment from various regions of China.
The festival is open Tuesday through Sunday each week from 5:30 – 10 p.m. with special Monday hours on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Tickets can be purchased online or at the event, with prices ranging from $14-$19. Additional discounts for military and college students are available as well. Parking at the event will cost $6 and is cash only.
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