Asian Lantern Festival at Central Florida Zoo

About this happenin

The showcase dragon swallows a whole clearing. It's one of more than 50 illuminated silk-and-steel sculptures that lantern makers set along a three-quarter-mile loop at the Central Florida Zoo once the animals have gone in for the night. Glowing parasols make a corridor overhead, and mythical creatures stand beside oversized wildlife. Seasonal food and drink are sold along the path, with live music and artisan crafts. The Asian Lantern Festival is a separately ticketed after-hours event, and annual passholders pay a discounted rate. Tickets are online only, for a set entry time on the hour between 6 and 8 p.m., with no refunds or date exchanges. Whichever time you pick, you can stay until the 10 p.m. close, rain or shine, and walk the loop as many times as you like. Last admission is 9:15 p.m., and most groups need an hour to 90 minutes. The animals stay in their night habitats, so save them for a daytime visit.

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Where

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens · 3755 W. Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771