Bright Nights Ahead As An Enchanting Lantern Festival Comes To The Zoo

If you’re looking for a magical way to light up your summer nights, the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival is the place to be.

Starting August 1 and running through September 29, the lantern festival will take over the zoo every Thursday to Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Get ready for an enchanting evening full of colorful lights, amazing performances, and a deep dive into Asian culture.

A Night of Lights and Wonders

elephant lanterns columbus zoo — Photo courtesy of Hanart

I can’t think of a better way to spend the end of summer than by strolling through the zoo with more than 60 sets of lantern displays guiding your way. These brilliantly lit animal scenes will turn your regular zoo visit into an extraordinary adventure.

Each lantern is handcrafted by 20 skilled artists from Zigong, China, known for their centuries-old craftsmanship, and they’ll illuminate paths throughout various areas of the zoo. From playful pandas to majestic tigers, these lanterns are set to create unforgettable memories for all ages.

“This centuries-old craftsmanship take nearly 30,000 hours to design each shape, and each lantern guests see at the Columbus Zoo are all handcrafted by masters from Ziggong, China,” said George Zhao, president of Hanart Culture, the producer of the event. “Through vibrant displays and cultural performances, the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival celebrates the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, inviting the Central Ohio community and beyond to immerse themselves in a world of light, color, and tradition.”

More Than Just Lanterns

sea turtle lanterns columbus zoo — Photo courtesy of Hanart

The Lantern Festival isn’t just about visual delights. Every evening, you can catch two incredible shows that highlight various aspects of Asian culture.

Whether it’s acrobats showing off their skills, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows, or folk music performances, there’s always something exciting to see. This festival celebrates the rich tapestry of Asian traditions, offering a perfect blend of art, culture, and entertainment.

Behind the Scenes

jellyfish lanterns — Photo courtesy of Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

This event is a modern take on an ancient tradition, showcasing the evolution of lantern making from the Han Dynasty to today. Using modern materials and technology, these lanterns come to life with colorful LED lightbulbs, musical enhancements, sound effects, and even visual moving parts. The dedication and artistry that go into creating these displays are simply awe-inspiring.

Perfect for Everyone

zebra lanterns columbus zoo — Photo courtesy of Hanart

Looking for a fun evening out with family or friends? The Lantern Festival offers something for everyone. Enjoy custom performances curated just for this event, complimentary parking, and select rides like Mission Macaw and the Zoo’s historic Grand Carousel. Plus, there are interactive photo opportunities throughout the zoo and meet-and-greets with Zoo Character Ambassadors.

Plan Your Visit

Here’s what you need to know before you go:

Event Timing: The Lantern Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. until September 29.

Ticket Info: This is a separate ticketed event. Admission for non-members is $25.99 for adults and $22.99 for children. Columbus Zoo members enjoy discounted rates of $18.99 for adults and $15.99 for children.

Weather: The festival will go on, rain or shine!

Regular Zoo Hours: In August, hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

While the zoo animals rest in the evening, the focus shifts to these stunning lanterns and the incredible performances, offering a unique way to experience the zoo after hours.

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the Columbus Zoo’s website.