Santa To Make Stop At Asian Lantern Festival: Into The Wild, Presented By Publix

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s making a special stop for two dates in December. 

Jolly old St. Nick will add a special touch of holiday magic to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix. The head elf will be there Dec. 13 and 20 from 6 to 9 p.m.

It’s the perfect way for families, especially those with kids to celebrate the season! Just like other nights of the festival, guests can stroll a 3/4-mile path around the Zoo and take in dozens of larger-than-life, handcrafted lanterns in an experience of sound, light and color. 

On Dec. 13 and 20, they will also have the chance to share their wishlist with Santa and take a special photo. Santa’s visit is presented by the SSA Group.

Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix, continues through Jan. 19, 2025, from 6 to 10 p.m. on select nights. This is the fifth year for the festival, which includes dozens of all-new, larger-than-life, hand-constructed lantern displays, plus an enchanting holiday section!

Single general admission tickets are $24.99 or save 20 percent on a Family 4-Pack for $80. Annual Passholders also save, with single tickets at $21 and Family 4-Packs for $72. Guests can purchase timed entry tickets here or visit https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/ for more information.

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. Exclusive food and beverage items will be available for purchase.

The festival is presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.

For more information about Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, visit https://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.