Now - July 4, 2022 | Tickets sold online only
Celebrate 2000 years of tradition as you journey through a wonderland of larger-than-life illuminated lanterns at this dazzling evening experience. Delight in savory Asian-inspired cuisine and drinks, as well as cultural stage show musical and dance performances on Friday – Sunday evenings by local community organizations and groups. This enchanting multicultural experience is sure to delight all ages! This zoo-wide walk-through event is lit Wednesday – Sunday evenings from 6 - 10:30 pm. Last admission is at 9:30 pm.
The show which is produced by Hanart Culture features nearly 700 glowing handcrafted lanterns, kids interactive lantern area (weather-permitting), artisanal 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 10:30 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 25 or more paying guests save $1 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 25 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 10:30 pm.
Asian Lantern Spectacular will be open weekly on Wednesday through Sunday nights from 6 - 10:30 pm, with last admission at 9:30 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 10:30 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:
- Full menu items coming soon!
Yes. The Soaring Eagle Zip Ride will be open with the last ticket sold at 9:30 pm. Get a birds-eye-view of the dazzling lantern display from 115 feet high. Tickets are sold at the Explore & Soar ticket booth on a first-come, first-served basis. Ride will be subject to weather conditions and may close even if Asian Lantern Spectacular remains open.
Woodlands Express Train Ride will NOT be open during the Asian Lantern Spectacular experience.
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.
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. 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. The rental kiosk is located near the main entrance. All rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis except where otherwise noted. Please see our Guest Services page for further information and pricing.
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.