Zoo Atlanta will close early on Monday, Dec. 9 for a teammate holiday gathering. Gates will close at 2:30 p.m. and the grounds will close at 4 p.m.

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ILLUMINIGHTS: A LANTERN FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY GEORGIA POWER RETURNS

Nighttime festival opens for the season with all-new wonders to make the holidays glow   

WHAT: The holiday season is alight with the wonders of the natural world with the return of IllumiNights: A Lantern Festival presented by Georgia Power, opening to the public Wednesday evening, November 20, 2024. The signature after-dark experience features more than 200 all-new lanterns and scenes celebrating the stunning pageantry of the biodiversity of our planet. IllumiNights is made possible with support from Luminary Sponsor Kaiser Permanente and Spark Sponsor SouthState Bank.  

From the seas to the skies, to all the treasured wild places in between, intricately hand-crafted, hand-painted lanterns showcase the splendors of nature. Highlights include a majestic bald eagle, creatures of an immersive undersea kingdom, and many more. In keeping with Zoo Atlanta’s mission of conservation, each lantern is powered with environmentally friendly LED lights.  

Adding to the spirit of the season are roasted marshmallows; warm beverages (festive spirits available for ages 21 and up); and magical rides on the Endangered Species Carousel. Snacks and meals are available for purchase at concession locations around the Zoo, along with limited-time souvenir cups perfect for complimentary refills throughout the evening.  

Returning in 2024 is Elf Power Inc., a holiday virtual reality experience presented in partnership with Immotion at the Zoo’s Wild Explorer VR Theater (additional ticket purchase required).  

Zoo Atlanta Member Preview Nights are Thursday, November 14 through Sunday, November 17, with an exclusive festival preview and a significant discount for Members, who also enjoy a Zoo Atlanta Member discount throughout the run of the event.  

Because IllumiNights is an after-dark event, members of the Zoo’s living animal population will not be visible; visit the Zoo during the day for a different experience.  

IllumiNights runs through January 19, 2025. Due to limited capacity, advance ticket purchases are strongly encouraged. Get tickets, full event details, and answers to frequently asked questions at zooatlanta.org/illuminights 

WHEN: Wednesday, November 20, 2024, through Sunday, January 19, 2025; 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (last entry at 8 p.m.). Member Preview Nights are Thursday, November 14 through Sunday, November 17, 2024. 

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

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