The Grand Rapids Lantern Festival is returning to John Ball Zoo, promising to be another unforgettable experience with hundreds of lanterns lighting up the night, offering an immersive, enchanting atmosphere.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors have experienced the magic of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival, featuring a one-mile tour through John Ball Zoo through handcrafted Asian lantern displays. This year’s festival takes place 7:30-11:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays from April 9-June 15. Zoo members receive early access to discounted tickets on Feb. 28, and general admission tickets go on sale March 8.
“John Ball Zoo is thrilled to present an even bigger and better Grand Rapids Lantern Festival featuring new lanterns and interactive experiences,” said Darci Mitchell, promotions & events manager at the Zoo. “These beautiful lanterns tell the intersecting story of wildlife and Asian culture, and we are excited to welcome visitors from across the country for the third consecutive year.”
The lanterns come from Tianyu (TEE-ON-YOU) Arts & Culture, a leading Chinese lantern festival producer that promotes conservation and sustainability through its festivals. These core values align with John Ball Zoo’s commitment to the conservation of wildlife and wild places, as well as providing fun, engaging and educational opportunities for guests. The lanterns are made through traditional lantern-making skills and come in many shapes and sizes, from animals, plants, insects and more.
Tianyu will also bring entertainment to the festival, featuring performances with face changing, plate spinning, acrobatics and more.
Along with early access and discounted tickets to the Lantern Festival, Zoo members receive unlimited free admission to the Zoo and 20% off food, beverages and gift shop purchases. They also have early access and discounts to camps, birthday parties and other activities.
Memberships support the Zoo’s conservation efforts that work to preserve wildlife and wild places locally and around the world. Visit the Zoo’s website for more information about memberships.
