Asian Lantern Festival presented by Meijer Returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Tickets are on sale now for the summer’s popular Asian Lantern Festival presented by Meijer, returning to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo from Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, August 23. Experience the wonder of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo illuminated after dark, featuring live performances on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and a variety of culturally inspired cuisine at the MetroHealth Asian Food Market.

New this year, guests can expect more hands-on interactive experiences and the debut of the K-Pop Family Dance Party. Guests can dance the night away with an energetic, interactive experience designed for all ages to enjoy. Throughout the evening, dynamic festival hosts will keep the celebration going, featuring family-friendly K-Pop and global pop hits, host-led dance tutorials, and interactive games that invite guests of all skill levels to join the fun.

"As we celebrate the ninth year of this beloved summer tradition, we're excited to welcome guests of all ages once again to connect with Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in a fun, family-friendly way. This festival continues to bring our community together through memorable experiences, immersive, hands-on activities, and opportunities to engage with wildlife and conservation,” said Cleveland Metroparks Chief Marketing Officer Kelly Manderfield. “We're grateful to our community partners whose support helps bring this event to life each year, and we look forward to creating another unforgettable experience for families across Northeast Ohio."

Additional interactive opportunities include several pedal, crank, and step-operated lanterns, walk-through tunnels and uniquely themed areas, including the RainForest Path presented by CrossCountry Mortgage.

"We’re proud to support the Asian Lantern Festival as it returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for another unforgettable summer," said Melissa Conway, Director of Community Partnerships and Giving at Meijer. "This event brings families and communities together through culture, creativity and shared experiences, while showcasing one of Northeast Ohio’s most treasured destinations. We’re excited to help create memorable moments for guests as they explore these stunning lantern displays.”

In addition to the full walk-through experience Thursdays through Sundays from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the Zoo is excited to announce the return of the Asian Lantern Festival drive-through experience presented by McDonald's of Northeast Ohio. On select nights, guests will be able to drive-through the festival from the comfort of their own vehicles. 

Back by popular demand, the Lantern 5K presented by CrossCountry Mortgage returns on July 21 at 8:30 p.m. Runners and walkers will enjoy a scenic nighttime race through vibrant lantern displays. Pre-registration is $30 and includes a custom race t-shirt, finisher medal, post-race refreshments, and festival admission to continue exploring the lanterns after crossing the finish line. Register at clevelandmetroparks.com/raceseries.

Tickets are on sale now and 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 on sale now at FutureForWildlife.org/lanterns.

Elevate your Asian Lantern Festival experience with the exclusive 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.

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