Columbus families have just a few nights left to see the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium glow after dark. The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival runs through Sunday, October 25, on Thursday through Sunday evenings from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., transforming the Zoo’s pathways into an illuminated adventure with more than 70 handcrafted lantern displays.
New this year, dinosaur lanterns join the glowing wildlife, alongside interactive experiences in Adventure Cove and around Conservation Lake and a floating lantern feature on the lake itself. Kids will love spotting a giant glowing octopus surrounded by bright coral, animals from around the world, and photo opportunities at every turn — each display handcrafted by skilled artisans from Zigong, China, blending a lantern tradition dating back to the Han Dynasty with modern LED light, movement, music and sound.
The family fun goes well beyond the lights. The festival includes live entertainment, SpectroLantern Rolling Celebration performances, Character Ambassador meet-and-greets, and complimentary rides — including the Columbus Zoo Train, the Grand Carousel, Mission Macaw, Tidal Twist, Flying Clipper and Havoc Harbor — plus festival food and drinks to enjoy along the way.
The Lantern Festival is a separately ticketed after-hours event, and parking and unlimited spins on the included rides come with admission. A happy tip from the Zoo: download its free mobile app and search the word “Lantern” for walking directions to the displays you want to see most. Gather the family and catch the glow before it fades on October 25!
Photo: Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
