Zoo Atlanta: IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival

About this adventure

IllumiNights at the Zoo illuminates historic Grant Park with more than 80 handcrafted, larger-than-life wildlife lanterns created by master Chinese artisans using hand-painted silk and thousands of glowing energy-efficient LED lights. Families embark on an enchanting evening stroll along the zoo's paved pathways to marvel at luminous depictions of endangered and majestic creatures from around the world, from towering 20-foot giraffes and radiant pandas to glowing sea turtles, leaping leopards, and a mesmerizing 100-foot illuminated Chinese dragon centerpiece. While living zoo animals are resting safely indoors for the night, the experience is enriched by festive illuminated photo-ops, seasonal light tunnels, interactive ground projections, and holiday treats including hot cocoa, warm churros, spiced cider, and sweet funnel cakes. The smooth asphalt paths are completely accessible for strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs. The festival operates on select evenings with timed-entry ticketing to manage pathway capacity.