Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

Immerse yourself in the glow of more than 60 sets of LED lantern displays at The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival. 

The brilliantly lit animal scenes will glow along the paths throughout various areas of the Zoo.

Explore various aspects of Asian culture with shows each evening, which may include acrobats, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows, or folk music performances.

©Hanart

From August 1 through September 29, 2024, experience this colorful celebration of Asian culture produced by Hanart Culture every Thursday through Sunday, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“We are excited to bring this extraordinary event to our community,” said Columbus Zoo and Aquarium President and CEO Tom Schmid. “The Lantern Festival is a modern take on an ancient tradition, and we are honored to showcase the incredible artistry and cultural richness of Asia. Our guests will have the unique opportunity to see these lanterns and enjoy the vibrant entertainment and cultural experiences.”

Twenty skilled artists from China will be onsite, working to create exquisite scenes that feature animals from around the world. This festival highlights the evolution of lantern making from the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. – 220 A.D.) to the present day, where modern materials and technology bring these masterpieces to life with colorful LED lightbulbs, musical enhancements, sound effects, and visual moving parts.

©Hanart

Visiting the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

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

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.  

You may not see any/many animals during the Lantern festival. Most are in the sleeping areas after the Zoo closes. 

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
4850 W. Powell Rd
Powell, Ohio 43065