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.
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 (weather-permitting), savory Asian-inspired cuisine and drinks, hand-crafted keepsakes, and more!
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.
Please be aware that the Spectacular's interactive childrens' area will be open weather-permitting and may be unavailable on inclement weather nights, even when the rest of the show is open.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
No. A separate event ticket reservation is required for Asian Lantern Spectacular.
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.
Yes. Asian-inspired cuisine and beverages will be available at Tuskers Cafe, Nourish 401, and select locations throughout the Zoo.
New Asian-inspired menu items include:
- Szechuan chicken rice bowl (Nourish 401)
- Sticky pork belly rice bowl (Nourish 401)
- Orange chicken rice bowl (Nourish 401)
- Veggie rice bowl (Nourish 401)
- Mandarin cobb salad (Nourish 401)
- Bulgogi Bahn Mi sandwich (Nourish 401)
- Egg rolls (Nourish 401)
- Fried dumplings (Nourish 401)
- Sake (Nourish 401)
- Asian street tacos (Tuskers)
- Crispy Szechuan chicken sandwich (Tuskers)
Beginning May 22nd, the Zoo will follow the state of Rhode Island’s recommendations and guidelines regarding mask wearing.
OUTDOORS:
- Vaccinated guests will NOT be required to wear a mask.
- Unvaccinated guests WILL BE required to wear a mask when 3’ separation cannot be maintained outdoors.
INDOORS:
- Vaccinated guests will NOT be required to wear a mask except when entering the Zoo’s Faces of the Rainforest exhibit
- Unvaccinated guests WILL BE required to wear a mask when entering all indoor locations.
Thank you for helping us keep our staff, animals and all our Zoo friends safe!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Once you arrive at the entrance to the Zoo, it takes about 1.5 - 2 hours to walk through the entire show.
No. Asian Lantern Spectacular tickets are not eligible for an upgrade to a membership.
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.
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.
If a visitor requires an accommodation for disability, please notify the nearest staff person.
Yes. Strollers and wheelchairs will be available for rental on a first come, first serve basis.
Yes, we insist! However, please be mindful of pathway traffic and we ask you do not use flash or the use of tripods.
No. Smoking including vaping and e-cigs are not allowed.
Yes. Cash or credit can be used at any of our retail or food concessions throughout the Zoo.
ATMs are located inside the Admissions Plaza and in Nourish 401.