Cleveland Metroparks Zoo announced the return of the Asian Lantern Festival presented by Meijer. In the festival’s fifth year, this after hours event begins on Thursday, July 6 and features both a walk-through and drive-through experiences, large-scale illuminated lantern displays, live acrobatic performances on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and culturally inspired cuisine.
Over 1,000 illuminated lanterns will light up the Zoo after dark. This year’s event will include some of the largest displays yet, including a 100-foot-long, four-story-tall palace, sprawling Chinese gardens along Waterfowl Lake and a half-dozen giant walk-through lanterns that will surround guests with colorful flowers.
“Asian Lantern Festival has become a summer staple in Cleveland with guests returning year after year to experience the Zoo in a whole new way,” says Kelly Manderfield, Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer. “Thanks to the tremendous support of our partners we’re able to elevate the festival every year and we can’t wait to share our biggest and most complex displays yet.”
In addition to the full walk-through experience Thursdays through Sundays from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., a limited number of drive-through opportunities will be available on Wednesday nights for individuals and families who wish to experience this year’s event from the comfort of their personal vehicles.
Tickets are on sale now and guests can reserve their spot and save by purchasing tickets in advance. The discounted cost for Zoo members is $19 or a 4-pack for $57. Advance non-member tickets are $22 or a 4-pack for $66. Same day tickets can be purchased at the Box Office for $25 or a 4-pack for $75. Drive-through tickets are $57 per vehicle for members and $66 per vehicle for non-members. Children under 2 are admitted free. Advance tickets are on sale now at FutureForWildlife.org/lanterns
