The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is excited to announce the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival, a new and spectacular family-friendly event produced by Hanart Culture. From August 1 through September 29, guests can experience this colorful celebration of Asian culture every Thursday through Sunday, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Lantern Festival is set to illuminate the Zoo with more than 60 sets of stunning LED lantern displays, featuring brilliantly lit animal scenes that captivate and inspire. Multicolored LED animal lanterns will illuminate paths throughout various areas of the Zoo, creating an unforgettable experience. In addition to the breathtaking lanterns, guests can explore various aspects of Asian culture by enjoying two incredible shows each evening, which may include acrobats, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows, or folk music performances.

The Lantern Festival offers a perfect evening out for families and friends and includes:

Custom jaw-dropping performances curated just for this event
Complimentary parking
Select rides like Mission Macaw, Tidal Twist, and Havoc Harbor in Adventure Cove, and the Zoo’s historic Grand Carousel
Interactive photo opportunities throughout the Zoo
Zoo Character Ambassador meet-and-greets and rolling celebrations

Know Before You Go:

The festival will go on, rain or shine!
Regular Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in July. Regular Zoo hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday-Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in August. The Lantern Festival begins August 1 and runs Thursdays through Sundays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. until September 29.
The Lantern Festival is a separate ticketed event and not included with Zoo admission. Admission rates for non-members are $25.99 for adults and $22.99 for children. Columbus Zoo members receive a discounted admission rate of $18.99 for adults and $15.99 for children.
The lanterns are the true stars of the event. While the animals in our care take a rest during the evening hours, the focus of the Lantern Festival is on creating memories with family and friends during this 8-week event.

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