Today's Hours: 9am - 6pm
Join us for a new and spectacular family-friendly event in Central Ohio: the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival! This is a dazzling spectacle featuring over 70 sets of Asian lanterns highlighting beautiful wildlife scenes from around the world. Multicolored LED animal lanterns will illuminate paths throughout various areas of the Zoo, creating an unforgettable experience.
July 31 - October 5, 2025 | Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays | 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.
The Lantern Festival kicks off AFTER the Columbus Zoo closes for the day.
NOTE: The Lantern Festival will be closed on Friday, September 19, for a fundraising event.
The Lantern Festival is an event that begins after the Zoo closes for the day. Tickets do not include daytime Zoo admission. 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 10-week event.
The Chinese Lantern Festival is a modern celebration of an ancient tradition that began during the Han Dynasty. Once simple lights, today’s lanterns have evolved into intricate, life-sized works of art.
Crafted with LED bulbs, music, and moving parts, they bring animals and stories to life in dazzling detail!
Enjoy our Lantern Festival after the Zoo closes from the convenience of your own golf cart! This after-hours tour ensures you have the Zoo all to yourself, and a tour guide will show you some of the most magical regions.
Book up to 10 guests, and bring your camera!
We want your visit to the Lantern Festival to be as comfortable and enjoyable as possible!
Check out these friendly tips and hints from our staff.
