This week we visited the Asian Lantern Festival at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens and it was absolutely lovely. The venue transforms itself completely with larger-than-life lanterns of all shapes and sizes, from dragons to butterflies to giant lobsters and fields of cherry blossoms. Strolling around in the cool night air, you are transported to a different time and place altogether. Not your typical crazy wild “festival”, the visitor is led down winding paths through the dense Florida trees under starry skies – the experience is peaceful, calming and even romantic. It would make a great parents night out, as well as a fun opportunity for the kids to see sparkling lights, hear calming traditional music, identify their Chinese horoscope character, and learn about other icons and symbols of Asian culture.
This fantastic festival starts November 15, 2024 and runs through January 19, 2025 on select dates.
***Tickets must be purchased online in advance to ensure entry as many nights will sell out. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated when tickets have sold out. Limited tickets are available per night. Tickets must be purchased for specific entry times: 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., or 8:00 p.m. ***
