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The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix, is now open at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, dazzling guests with all-new, larger-than-life, hand-constructed lantern displays.
This holiday season, guests will step into a magical world of ocean-inspired landscapes and mythical creatures as they stroll the 3/4-mile loop around the Zoo, from graceful ice dragons and unicorns to a new twist on the festival’s beloved showcase dragon.
The event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. on select nights through January 18, 2026. Single general admission tickets are $26.99 for general admission or save 20% on a Family 4-Pack for $88. Passholders will still enjoy discounted rates of $23 per ticket or $80 per Family 4-Pack.
Entry times are 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. each evening. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to lock in the best rates and secure preferred dates and times. Tickets must be purchased online for designated timed entry. Guests can purchase timed entry tickets here or visit www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/ for more information. Parking is free.
Exclusive food and beverage items will be available for purchase. Guests can enjoy an enchanting holiday section and exclusive seasonal food and drink offerings, from festive hot cocoa and fireside s’mores to a fully curated festival menu.
This year’s festival also includes Santa Nights from 6 to 10 p.m. on December 21–23, when guests can visit and take a festive photo with Santa. It will also feature Sensory Nights on December 3 and January 13 for individuals and families with disabilities or sensory sensitivities, as well as a family-friendly New Year’s Eve countdown at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.
“Each year, the Asian Lantern Festival brings a new sense of wonder and discovery to the Zoo, celebrating art, culture and community in a spectacular way,” said Richard E. Glover, Jr., CEO. “It has truly become a Central Florida holiday tradition, and we’re thrilled to once again share this magical experience with guests.”
There are several opportunities for groups looking to experience the magic of the event, as well. Discounted pricing is available for groups of 15 or more on a single night. Event packages with catering and private spaces are also available for corporate events or holiday parties. And there are select opportunities for full buyouts, where groups can reserve their own evening of the festival for a private experience. Those interested in group events should email events@centralfloridazoo.org or click here for more information.
This is the sixth year for the festival, which started in 2019 and was not held in 2020. Last year, the event once again broke attendance records, drawing an incredible 120,000 ticket sales, with so many who walked through the Zoo’s gates to experience the spectacular festival.
The festival is presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.
For more information about Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, visit www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/.
About the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to more than 350 animals in Sanford, Florida. As a not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. More information is available at www.centralfloridazoo.org.
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