Asian Lantern Festival Extended Through September 12 at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Featuring Spectacular Drone Show Finale

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo today announced the popular Asian Lantern Festival presented by Meijer is extended through Saturday, September 12, giving guests additional opportunities to experience the beloved after-hours summer tradition. For the first time, the festival will culminate with a spectacular new drone show finale by Sky Elements Drone Shows on the final night in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, transforming the night sky into a canvas of choreographed light.

The Asian Lantern Festival extension gives guests additional opportunities to experience the Zoo illuminated at night, live performances on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and a K-Pop Dance Party, culturally inspired cuisine at the MetroHealth Asian Food Market and a variety of hands-on and interactive experiences throughout the Zoo. Featured areas include the RainForest Path presented by CrossCountry Mortgage, walk-through tunnels and uniquely themed lantern displays.

The festival's new finale on September 12 will take the experience to new heights as hundreds of synchronized aerial drones lift into formation, creating dynamic animations and sky-borne storytelling through choreographed light. The immersive drone spectacular will transform the skyline above Cleveland Metroparks Zoo into a high-definition light show, creating a memorable finale to the festival's ninth year.

“As we celebrate this beloved summer tradition, we’re excited to extend the Asian Lantern Festival and allow even more families to make memories together, connect with nature and wildlife, and enjoy the Zoo after dark. We’re thrilled to cap the festival with a spectacular new drone show that will make the final night one to remember,” said Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer Kelly Manderfield.

The 2026 Asian Lantern Festival features more interactive experiences than ever before, including several interactive lanterns, walk-through tunnels and uniquely themed areas. New this year is the K-Pop Dance Party, an energetic, interactive experience designed for guests of all ages featuring family-friendly K-Pop and global pop hits, host-led dance tutorials and interactive games.

“The Asian Lantern Festival continues to bring families and communities together through culture, creativity and shared experiences,” said Melissa Conway, Director of Community Partnerships and Giving at Meijer. “We’re proud to support this beloved Northeast Ohio tradition and look forward to helping guests make even more memories as they explore the stunning lantern displays.”

In addition to the full walk-through experience, the Asian Lantern Festival drive-through experience presented by McDonald’s of Northeast Ohio, continues on select nights, allowing guests to experience the illuminated festival from the comfort of their own vehicles.

Tickets for the additional Asian Lantern Festival dates are on sale now. Guests can reserve their spot and save by purchasing tickets in advance. The advance discounted cost for Zoo members is $24 or a 4-pack for $70. Advance non-member tickets are $27 or a 4-pack for $80. Limited same-day tickets can be purchased online or at the Box Office for an increased cost. The Box Office will close at 9:30 p.m. Drive-through tickets are $49 per vehicle for members and $59 per vehicle for non-members. Children under 2 are admitted free. Advance tickets are available at clevelandmetroparks.com/lanterns. Tickets for the drone show finale on September 12 are $30 each.

Guests looking to elevate their experience can also reserve the VIP Walk-Through Package, available on select Friday and Saturday evenings. Designed for groups of up to eight guests, the package includes festival admission, a private covered tent, a catered menu of Asian-inspired favorites, beverage service and more.

The Asian Lantern Festival is open Thursdays through Sundays from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. through September 12, with the final night featuring the new drone show finale.

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