FAQ

What is the Asian Lantern Festival?

The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is the only event in Central Florida celebrating the culture, art, and beauty of traditional lantern festivals celebrated throughout Asia for centuries. This inaugural event was created in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., an international event design and manufacturing company headquartered in Zigong, Sichuan, China.

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens has been transformed into a dazzling evening experience featuring more than 30 larger-than-life displays of illuminated sculptures depicting animals, plants, and traditional Chinese elements. In addition to the hand-made LED lit lanterns, festival attendees will get to enjoy local food and beverage options, live music, and authentic artisan crafts.

Is this event a walking or driving experience?

The festival is a walking journey on a 3/4 mile path around the Zoo. Manual wheelchairs are available for rent on a first come, first served basis. The festival is being held entirely outside at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens located at 3755 W. Seminole, Blvd, Sanford FL 32771. Get Directions!

Do I need to buy a Zoo admission ticket?

No. Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is a separate event from the Zoo, and occurs at night outside of normal Zoo operating hours. Only a ticket to Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is required. Purchase tickets online.

What if it rains?

This event is held rain or shine. No refunds or date exchanges are allowed.

What can you expect to see?

Themed lantern displays around the Zoo.

Unique crafts.

Will I see animals?

No. Our animals have access to their night habitats for their safety. Please visit the Zoo during normal operating hours if you wish to see animals.

When is the last time I can enter the festival?

The last admission time is at 9:15 p.m. No exceptions.

Will there be food?

Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Can I purchase tickets at the ticket window or over the phone?

No. Tickets can only be purchased on our website.

How do Family 4-Packs work?

Four-packs allow guests to take advantage of extra savings! One four-pack includes four tickets to the event. All tickets need to be used on the same date and time. If a four-pack is not used in its entirety, it cannot be redeemed for another night.

If I am a Zoo Annual Pass Holder, can I come in for free?

No. The Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild is an event that takes place outside of normal Zoo operating hours, and therefore, not included your passholder benefits. However, we do offer our passholders a discounted rate! Just check your inbox for purchasing instructions or follow the link here.

If a night shows to be sold out, will more tickets become available?

If a night shows to be sold out on our website, then it is truly sold out. However, there is a chance that multiple guests are shopping at once and have some of the last remaining tickets in their shopping carts. If they do not proceed with their transactions, then yes, the tickets would then become available again. We encourage you to check back periodically or, of course, take advantage of another open night.

Do I need to show up on my selected day and time?

Yes. We set capacities on all dates and times so that guests have a smooth flow of traffic, available parking, and the best experience possible.

How long does it take to walk the entire path?

Typically, it takes most groups one to 1 ½ hours to walk through and see everything. It is a 3/4 mile path. However, do not feel rushed if you take longer. You do not miss anything from the earlier time slots if you choose a later one. Guests are allowed to go around the path more than once. Last entry is at 9:15 p.m.

Can I re-enter?

No re-entry is allowed.

Can I go around the lantern path more than once?

Yes, guests may walk the lantern path as many times as they choose.