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Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild – Sensory Night

January 13, 2026

5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

3755 W Seminole Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771

A sensory-friendly way to experience the popular event

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens will transform at night into the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild!

Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild – Sensory Night

Date:

December 3 & January 13

Timed Entry:

5:30 PM & 6:30 PM
Final Entry at 7:30 PM

Event closes at 8:30 PM


On December 3 and January 13, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens invites guests to experience Sensory Nights at the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix. These special evenings are designed to create a more comfortable, welcoming environment for individuals and families with disabilities or sensory sensitivities—while still delivering the magic of the festival.

A More Comfortable Way to Explore

  • Lower crowd levels for easier movement and reduced stimulation

  • Dedicated Quiet Zones for breaks and decompression

  • Adjusted light and sound on select displays to soften intensity

These nights are intentionally designed for guests who benefit from a gentler experience. For most visitors, we recommend attending on one of our regular festival nights to enjoy the full-intensity event.


The Festival You Love—In a Way That Feels Right for You
Stroll a beautifully lit 3/4-mile path featuring more than 50 hand-crafted lanterns. These glowing works of art bring the Zoo to life in a whole new way, celebrating the vibrant tradition of Asian lantern festivals.

All ages are welcome. Tickets must be purchased online, and availability is limited for each Sensory Night to ensure a calmer experience.


Full Event Dates
Select nights November 14, 2025 through January 18, 2026, 6–10 p.m.

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