Last chance to experience IllumiNights at the Zoo

Chinese Lantern Festival closes for the season after January 15

WHAT: The coming nights are Atlanta’s last chances to experience the wonders of IllumiNights: A Chinese Lantern Festival – and to kick off the new year with eye-opening inspirations for saving Earth’s spectacular biodiversity – before the festival closes for the season on January 15, 2023. IllumiNights is presented by Georgia Power, with additional support from Beacon Sponsor PNC and Luminary Sponsor Kaiser Permanente.

Guests of all ages will enjoy an after-dark stroll through a Zoo transformed with the lights of more than 100 lanterns, each handcrafted by Chinese artisans. From a breathtaking entry arch formed by brilliantly lit peacocks, to larger-than-life giant pandas surrounded by cherry blossoms, to whimsical sloths and tropical birds, the lanterns celebrate the splendor of our planet’s biodiversity. Other can’t-miss sights, such as two Chinese dragons and a spectacularly lit phoenix, evoke magnificent creatures of legend.

Magical rides on the Endangered Species Carousel, a S’mores patio, and warm beverages (including adult beverages) add to the experience of a midwinter wonderland.

Because IllumiNights is an after-dark experience, the Zoo’s living population of animals will not be visible during the event. Instead, wildlife takes shape in the form of the lanterns, which are sure to excite and inspire.

In keeping with Zoo Atlanta’s mission of conservation, the Zoo Atlanta Green Team will also be accepting unused holiday lights for recycling during IllumiNights. Guests may deposit non-working or unwanted string lights in the marked receptacle at Zoo Atlanta Admissions on any evening during the remaining run of the event. Recycled string lights will be dismantled and their components used in the manufacture of electronics (copper and other metals) and shoes (plastic).

Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with the last entry at 8 p.m. Advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged.

Visit zooatlanta.org/illuminights for tickets and full event details.

WHEN:                   
Now through Sunday, January 15, 2023                               

WHERE:              
 Zoo Atlanta                                
800 Cherokee Avenue, S.E.                 
Atlanta, GA  30315