The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival is back and brighter than ever! Running from July 31 through October 5th, the Columbus Zoo comes alive at night filled with stunning lanterns that take over the entire zoo. From mythical creatures like the beautiful rising Phoenix to zebras and giraffes, you can see the thought and detail put into every lantern creation.
This event is perfect for people of all ages and is the perfect family friendly event, date night idea, or if you want to go with your bestie and take all the photos (there are so many photo ops). I took my two kids, my 11-year-old daughter and my almost three-year-old son (kids under three are free), and we were all completely amazed.
If you’ve been to the Columbus Zoo you know how busy it can get so I was a little worried when we arrived at 8pm but the crowd was much smaller and I was able to find great parking making entry easy even with a stroller and todder.
Related Post: Find family-friendly things to do in Troy, Ohio
The best part was as soon as we walked in, we caught a live performance with a dancing dragon. It was vibrant, full of energy, and one of those moments where you glance at your kids’ faces and know the night is going to be something special.
Glowing Lanterns at the Columbus Zoo
Walking into the Columbus Zoo Lantern festival, the first thing you notice is the incredible light displays. Every path glows with oversized lanterns, from mythical creatures to zebras to whimsical tunnels you can walk through. Around the lake is where the magic really hits. In the center sits an enormous dragon that breathes real smoke, and with the reflection on the water, it looked like it was floating. My kids were so captivated we looped back a second time just to watch it again.
At every turn there was something new to discover—giant glowing flowers, interactive paths that change colors when you step on them, a tunnel shaped like a fish, even swings that light up as you move. It felt like the perfect mix of jaw-dropping visuals for adults and playful fun that kept my kids running from one surprise to the next.
Performances and Activities
The lanterns are the headliners, but the cultural performances make the night feel even more special. We started with the dragon dance show, but there are two performances each evening, ranging from traditional dance to acrobatics. They’re quick enough to hold attention yet polished enough to feel like a complete experience.
Another perk is that rides are included with admission. The Grand Carousel glows beautifully at night, and the train gives you a peek at lanterns you can’t see from the paths. We skipped it this time, but several families told me it’s one of the best ways to spot hidden displays.
Food and Pre-Festival Dinner Ideas
Inside the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival you’ll find classic fair-style snacks—pretzels, cotton candy, warm drinks. With a few lantern themed options as well like the Fire and Ice drink which is a slushie with fireball.
We opted for Pepsi’s and a soft pretzel which was perfect for a mid-evening pick-me-up. For dinner, though, I recommend stopping in Dublin beforehand. North Market Bridge Park is great if your crew wants variety, Cap City Diner is an easy win for families, and couples will love VASO Rooftop Lounge for cocktails with skyline views.
Tickets, Hours, and Parking
The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival runs Thursday through Sunday evenings, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., through October 5. Tickets are $26.99 for adults and $23.99 for kids ages 3–9. Children under three are free, and Zoo members get a discount. There’s also a Roar and Return ticket that lets you enjoy the Zoo during the day and come back for the festival on another evening.
Parking is complimentary, and you’ll enter through the main gates. Stroller parking is available near the rides and shows, and all of the paved paths make it easy for both strollers and wheelchairs.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive right at 7:30 p.m. for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking a lot.
- Bring a jacket, especially in September when evenings can dip into the fifties.
- Don’t miss the dragon on the lake—it’s the star of the show.
- Families with little ones should plan naps earlier in the day so kids can last until closing.
Is the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival Worth It?
For us, the answer was yes. The highlights easily outweighed the challenges.
The pros:
- Lanterns that feel magical at every turn
- Interactive features to keep kids engaged
- Free parking and included rides
- Cultural performances that elevate the whole experience
The cons:
- Limited food options inside the Zoo, so plan to eat before you go
- Crowds are heavier on Friday and Saturday nights
- Late nights can be tough for toddlers without naps
Overall, it struck the perfect balance of beauty and fun. Even my two-year-old was entertained for hours, and none of us wanted to leave, even when we were dragging by the end.
Final Thoughts
The Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival 2025 is one of those events that makes fall in Ohio feel extra special. Between glowing dragons, interactive tunnels, cultural shows, and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the kind of evening you’ll want to turn into a tradition.
Make a night of it with dinner in Dublin, layer up for the cool evening air, and plan to stay until close. Whether you bring the kids, plan a date night, or just want an unforgettable backdrop for photos, the Lantern Festival delivers a glow-up you won’t forget.
Have you been yet? Tell me your favorite lantern display. My bet is on the dragon stealing hearts, but I’d love to hear your picks.
Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival FAQ’s
When is the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival 2025?
The festival runs from July 31 through October 5, 2025, on Thursday through Sunday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
How much are tickets to the Lantern Festival?
General admission is $26.99 for adults and $23.99 for kids ages 3–9. Kids under 3 are free. Zoo members get discounted pricing, and you can buy tickets online or at the gate.
Is the Lantern Festival good for kids?
Yes! It’s one of the most family-friendly fall events in Ohio. Kids love the glowing tunnels, interactive swings, carousel, and train rides—all included with admission.
