Asian Lantern Spectacular

Asian Lantern Spectacular | Now - July 4

Journey through a wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns inspired by our wild world. From dazzling and interactive displays to delicious Asian-inspired cuisine, this enchanting multicultural experience is sure to delight all ages! Tickets are sold ONLINE ONLY.

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This zoo-wide walk-through event is lit Wednesday – Sunday evenings from 5:30 until 10:00 pm. Last admission is at 9:00 pm.

The show which is produced by Hanart Culture will feature over 50 spectacular glowing lantern displays, kids interactive lantern area, savory Asian-inspired cuisine and drinks, hand-crafted keepsakes, and more!

Please Note:

The Asian Lantern Spectacular experience is RAIN or SHINE and all tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE (unless there is a Zoo closure). In the case of extreme inclement weather and/or show cancellation, the Zoo will send out an email to all the show’s ticketholders, notifying of the cancellation. Show cancellations will also be posted here and the Zoo’s Facebook page.

While guests have specific arrival windows, once checked in you are not on a time restriction and may stay for however long you wish until the event closes at 10:00 pm.

Proceeds from the Asian Lantern Spectacular support the Zoo’s ongoing animal care, education programs and conservation initiatives. Thank you for helping us save wildlife and wild places!

Group Savings
Host a private event or learn how you can purchase discounted tickets.
Host a private event:

We offer the opportunity for organizations to host private events any night during our Asian Lantern Spectacular. No matter how big or small the event, we can provide you with an exciting evening. For more information, please contact: gsales@rwpzoo.org.

Purchase discounted tickets:

Groups with 10 or more paying guests save $2 on each ticket when all tickets are ordered online in one transaction.  The Asian Lantern Spectacular is a timed entry program, so all purchases must be made online in advance, with a specific date and time selected.  

To take advantage of group ticket savings: The group discount will automatically apply at checkout once you add 10 paid tickets to the cart and then advance to the next screen.  The e-tickets will then be emailed to you shortly after purchase – saving you from any postal delays!  Questions? Contact GSales@rwpzoo.org. 

Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to reserve tickets?

Yes. All tickets must be purchased online in advance as no tickets will be sold at the door. While guests have specific arrival windows, once checked in you are not on a time restriction and may stay for however long you wish until the event closes at 10:00 pm.

Get Tickets >

 

What nights and hours will Asian Lantern Spectacular be open?

Asian Lantern Spectacular will be open weekly on Wednesday through Sunday nights from 5:30 until 10:00 pm, with last admission at 9:00 pm. While guests have specific arrival windows, once checked in you are not on a time restriction and may stay for however long you wish until the event closes at 10:00 pm.

Do members get in free for Asian Lantern Spectacular?

No. Members will receive discounted admission to the show when they purchase tickets through their online linked member account.  The discount saves $2 off an adult ticket and $1 off child a ticket. All members are required to make an online ticket reservation for the event for capacity reasons. Children under 2 are free.

I purchased a daytime admission ticket. Can I use it for Asian Lantern Spectacular instead?

No. A separate event ticket reservation is required for Asian Lantern Spectacular.

Can I stay in the Zoo for Asian Lantern Spectacular if I’ve reserved a daytime ticket for the same day?

No. Daytime guests will be required to leave the Zoo. A separate event ticket reservation specifically for the Asian Lantern Spectacular will be needed to re-enter.

Do I need to wear a mask at Asian Lantern Spectacular?

Yes. All guests 2 and older are required to wears masks while on Zoo grounds. For safety, social distancing protocols are enforced. 

 

Note: An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. By visiting the Asian Lantern Spectacular you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

Is food or drink available for purchase?

Yes. Asian-inspired cuisine and beverages will be available at Tuskers Cafe, Nourish 401, and select locations throughout the Zoo.

Menu coming soon!

Will Explore & Soar Zip Ride be open?

Yes. The Soaring Eagle Zip Ride will be open with the last ticket sold at 9:15 pm. Get a birds-eye-view of the dazzling lantern display from 115 feet high.

Woodlands Express Train Ride will operate from 5:30pm to 8:00pm with last ticket sold at 7:30pm.

Tickets for both rides are sold at the Explore & Soar ticket booth. Rides will be subject to weather conditions and may close even if Asian Lantern Spectacular remains open.

Are pets allowed?

For the safety and well-being of our guests as well as our animals, pets, emotional support and therapy animals are not allowed.

The Zoo will allow service animals for all disabilities on grounds as outlined by the ADA standards. 

Will live animals be visible?

Some Zoo animals will have access to their outdoor habitats and may be visible. All exhibit buildings will be closed during the event.

Social distancing will be maintained throughout the Zoo.

Can I touch the lanterns?

No. Each sculpture is a hand painted work of art which we would like to preserve not only for the entirety of the event, but for years to come.

Can I reschedule my tickets to Asian Lantern Spectacular?

Asian Lantern Spectacular tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable. Please confirm your selection before purchasing tickets.  If you are no longer able to attend the show, we recommend sharing your tickets with a friend or family member

Can I apply my Asian Lantern Spectacular tickets towards the cost of a Roger Williams Park Zoo membership?

No. Asian Lantern Spectacular tickets are not eligible for an upgrade to a membership.

Is parking free?

Yes, free parking will be offered in Zoo lots B, C, and D. Premiere parking will be available in Zoo lot A for $10. Uber/Lyft drop-off will be available at Zoo entrance to lot A.

Someone in my party is sensitive to light, noise, or other stimulation. Can you help us plan ahead?

Yes. Music is played throughout the Zoo, so if someone in your party is sensitive to noise, consider bringing noise-cancelling headphones. Some areas of the Zoo may be triggering for those who are sensitive to light or are prone to seizures.

A limited number of sensory bags are available and lended to visitors free of charge - simply ask front gate admissions staff when you arrive. Each bag is filled with fidget toys, emotional cue cards, noise-cancelling headphones and other useful toys. They are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis upon entry.

I have a disabled individual in my party who cannot wait in line for long amounts of time. Can we go to the front?

If a visitor requires an accommodation for disability, please notify the nearest staff person.

Are strollers and Wheelchairs available during the show?

Yes. Strollers and wheelchairs will be available for rental on a first come, first serve basis.

Can I take photos and/or videos of the Spectacular?

Yes, we insist! However, please be mindful of pathway traffic and we ask you do not use flash or the use of tripods.

Can I smoke inside the zoo?

No. Smoking including vaping and e-cigs are not allowed.

Can I use a credit card?

Yes. Cash or credit can be used at any of our retail or food concessions throughout the Zoo.

Is there an ATM on site?

ATMs are located inside the Admissions Plaza and in Nourish 401.