Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival
- Aug 20, 2026 – Oct 25, 2026
- 7:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
- Columbus Zoo, Powell
Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival
AUGUST 20 – OCTOBER 25, 2026
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Evenings
Join us for a spectacular family-friendly event in Central Ohio! 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.
The Lantern Festival comes to life after the Columbus Zoo closes for the day. You can purchase tickets for the festival only or add Zoo admission at a discount, too!
New for 2026: Dinosaurs!
Get ready for a prehistoric surprise! This year’s Lantern Festival brings dinosaurs to life in a whole new way, with colorful dinosaur lanterns glowing alongside some of your favorite Zoo animals.
From creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago to the wildlife we know and love today, families can explore a bright, larger-than-life world filled with dazzling lanterns around every turn.
