🏮 Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild 2026–2027

Experience a breathtaking world of light, color, and culture as the Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild returns to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford!

Taking place on select nights from November 13, 2026, through January 17, 2027, this spectacular nighttime event transforms the zoo into an illuminated wonderland featuring larger-than-life, handcrafted lantern displays glowing with thousands of colorful LED lights.

Visitors can explore a three-quarter-mile walking trail filled with dazzling scenes inspired by wildlife, outer space, polar landscapes, and traditional Chinese folklore.

Now celebrating its seventh year, this popular Central Florida holiday tradition combines artistry, culture, and imagination to create a memorable experience for families, couples, and visitors of all ages.

Guests can also enjoy seasonal food and beverages available for purchase, along with several special themed evenings throughout the festival.

Special Event Nights

✨ Sensory-Friendly Nights: December 1, 2026, and January 12, 2027

✨ Adults-Only Nights (21+): December 10, 2026, and January 5, 2027

🎅 Santa Visits: December 20–23, 2026

🎉 Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Countdown: December 31, 2026

Event Details

📅 Dates: November 13, 2026 – January 17, 2027 (Select Nights)

⏰ Hours: 6 PM – 10 PM

📍 Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
3755 W. Seminole Boulevard
Sanford, FL 32771

🎟️ Admission: Paid Admission

General Admission:

• $25 per person through October 31, 2026
• $27.99 per person beginning November 1, 2026
• Discounted family packages and zoo member rates available

🚗 Parking: FREE

Tickets must be purchased online in advance for a selected date and entry time. Regular zoo admission is not required, and zoo animals are not on display during the festival.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a festive date night, or a memorable holiday experience, the Asian Lantern Festival offers a magical way to celebrate the season in Central Florida!

Official Event Website & Tickets:

https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/