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The magical displays of Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild will return on select nights from November 13, 2026, to January 17, 2027. Central Florida’s well-known grocery store, Publix, will also return as the festival’s presenting sponsor.
“Each year, Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild brings wonder and excitement to our community while showcasing the Zoo in a new way, blending art, culture and nature,” said Richard E. Glover, Zoo CEO. “We are thrilled to welcome guests and proud to continue our collaboration with Publix for another season filled with spectacular displays, unforgettable moments and the magic that has made this event one of Orlando’s premier holiday traditions.”
The festival features larger-than-life handcrafted lanterns illuminated by more than 10,000 LED lights. This year’s displays will take guests on a journey through space, North American Animals, the Polar experience and traditional Chinese lanterns, blending color, light and sound to create a celebration of art, culture, nature and imagination.
Lanterns are situated on a 3/4-mile loop around the Zoo, providing a unique take on a holiday light show that keeps guests coming back year after year with friends and family.
This year’s festival will also feature several special event nights designed to create unique experiences for guests. Sensory Nights will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 1, and Tuesday, Jan. 12, offering a more inclusive environment with adjusted sound and lighting elements for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families. Guests ages 21 and older can also enjoy exclusive adults-only evenings on Thursday, Dec. 10, and Tuesday, Jan. 5, featuring the enchanting atmosphere of the festival in a grown-up setting.
“Publix is proud to once again support the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens and help bring Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild to families across Central Florida,” said Publix Media Relations Manager Hannah Herring. “This extraordinary experience creates lasting memories while celebrating the spirit of the season in a truly unique and inspiring way.”
Now in its seventh year, the festival attracts more than 100,000 visitors, with guests passing through the Zoo's gates each season to experience the spectacular event.
Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.
Family and individual tickets go on sale October 1, 2026. Reservations for groups are already under way and buy-outs for select nights are also available. Those interested in group events should email events@centralfloridazoo.org.
For high-resolution photos and video of last year’s event, click here.
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 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. The Zoo is an affordable, family-friendly experience supported by private donations and gate admission.
The Zoo is one of a small number of privately operated, non-profit zoos in the country accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) and serves as a valuable community resource that enhances the quality of life in Central Florida. By bringing guests face-to-face with animals they may never encounter in the wild, the Zoo is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of wildlife worldwide. More information is available at www.centralfloridazoo.org.
Media Contact
William Wellons
Wellons Communications
407-339-0879
will@wellonscommunications.com
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