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The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at John Ball Zoo is a breathtaking experience of light and wonder: a one-mile tour along a path illuminated by handcrafted Asian lantern displays that tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture. This is the only place you can see these incredible works of art in Michigan.
The Festival runs Wednesdays - Sundays from April 9 - May 19, then Tuesdays - Sundays from May 20 - June 15. Hours are 7:30pm-11:30pm – later hours provide the most dramatic lighting effects against the night sky, but earlier hours might be better for young families (and the lighted lanterns are still dazzling in daylight).
Food options are available during the Festival. Note that animals will not be viewable on the Lantern Festival route at night – for safety, they must be kept to their nightly routine – and the event will go on rain or shine.
You must purchase timed-entry tickets in advance. The last entry is at 10:30pm. Please arrive at the Zoo no more than 15 minutes before ticket entry time. Advanced tickets are strongly recommended – you can purchase them online. Tickets may be purchased on-site if entry time capacity is still available.
Single tickets range from $22 to $26, depending on the night, and special four-ticket packages are available for a discounted price. Children 2 and under get in free. The Festival path is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.