VISIT ZOO ATLANTA'S ILLUMINIGHTS: A CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL

This is such an AMAZING event to see. Imagine more than 100 lanterns crafted and hand-painted by Chinese artisans. These lanterns represent thousands of hours of work, each with environmentally friendly LED lights. This is one beautiful sight to see. 

Atlanta’s cherished holiday tradition is back! Zoo Atlanta is showcasing vistas of brilliantly illuminated wildlife while celebrating the wonders of nature. This year they are introducing new lanterns and experiences while transforming the Zoo Atlanta into a nighttime holiday wonderland.

Make family fun memories with family. Make great memories with friends. Make the ultimate date night. A Chinese Lantern Festival will surely bring you holiday glow and joy. Imagine enjoying a mile-long stroll of stunning contemplation of wildlife within our planet and creatures beyond our imagination, from luminous leopards to a towering fiery phoenix. There are literally and figuratively lanterns around every corner of the Zoo Atlanta this holiday season.

EVENT DATE(S):

Now through Sunday, January 14th, 2024

HOURS: 

5:30 to 9:30 p.m. with the last entry at 8 p.m.

Please be mindful that while most animals go indoors for the night, a few species typically spend time in their habitats after dark may be visible such as the giant pandas (indoor dayroom habitats), Chilean flamingos, and Huacaya alpacas.

ELF POWER

A Magical Festive Adventure!

Join Santa’s elves on a magical virtual reality journey, as you fly with reindeer and help deliver the magic of the holidays! This experience is new and is exclusive only to IllumiNights guests. Purchase as an add-on with your tickets today or at the gate when you arrive.  

Be sure to indulge in the beautifully illuminated photo ops sure to sparkle on your social media and tag them with #ONLYZOOATL, #EastAtlantaMacKID, #HolidayFun2023 #ElfPower and/or #MyHolidayFun2023

Know Before You Glow FAQs

Is this an animal experience?
The lanterns are the Zoo wildlife tonight! While most animals go indoors for the night, a select few species who typically spend time in their habitats after dark may be visible. These may include giant pandas (indoor dayroom habitats), Chilean flamingos, and Huacaya alpacas.

What about rain?
This is a rain-or-shine event. The lanterns will glow beautifully no matter what the weather. In the event of rain, please bring the appropriate gear. A limited number of ponchos and other items will be available in the Zoo Atlanta Explorer Store.

As safety is our number one priority, in the event weather conditions are assessed to be a safety hazard, Zoo Atlanta reserves the right to close or cancel the event. In the event of severe weather, check your email for pertinent updates.

If I’m visiting the Zoo during the day, will I need to leave and come back, or can I stay in the Zoo?

IllumiNights is a separate ticketed event, so all daytime Members and guests will be asked to leave the Zoo by 5 p.m. so we can set up for the evening. You may then reenter using your IllumiNights ticket at your designated reservation time.  

Is this a family-friendly event? 

Abso-lightly! IllumiNights is for everyone, from families to dates to girls’ nights out.

Will food and beverages be available for purchase? 

Yes, select concession locations will be available throughout the Zoo with festival-inspired beverages, snacks, and meals. View the menus and locations to plan your visit.

Will rides and attractions be open?

The Endangered Species Carousel will be open during IllumiNights. Elf Power, Inc., the VR Theater Experience, will be available exclusively during IllumiNights! Get into the holiday spirit as you take a seat in our all-new Gorilla Trek VR Theater for a special virtual experience you’ll find only at this event. Fly past snow-capped mountains in search of a child who needs to believe again. You never know who you’ll meet, thanks to your Elf Power!

Where do I park?

Paid public parking is available in the Cherokee Avenue lot (flat rate of $6 during IllumiNights) and in the Grant Park Gateway parking facility on Boulevard. Lots are patrolled, but please leave valuable items at home or secure them out of view.

Who can I contact with general questions about IllumiNights?

 You may contact us at 404.624.5937 or visit our website.