POWELL, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's first-ever Lantern Festival is underway.
The Lantern Festival is held Thursday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. until Sept. 29. The event began on Aug. 1.
The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival is illuminating areas of the zoo with over 60 LED lantern displays. Additionally, guests can explore and learn about Asian culture with shows featuring acrobats, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows or folk music performances.
“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 artists from China helped to create scenes featuring animals from around the world that will be prominent at the festival.
The festival also highlights the evolution of lantern-making from the Han Dynasty (200 B.C. to 220 A.D.) to the present day.
“This centuries-old craftsmanship takes nearly 30,000 hours to design each shape, and each lantern guests see at the Columbus Zoo is 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.”
Here’s what else you need to know about the festival.
- 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.
