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Ring in the New Year early at Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix

Why wait until midnight to celebrate? Light up your New Year’s Eve with a unique twist at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, presented by Publix.

 

On Wednesday, December 31, in addition to its general hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Zoo will open for special hours from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. for a magical evening filled with color, music and festive fun. It’s the perfect way for families, especially those with smaller kids, to start off the festivities. 

 

Ring in 2026 with a spectacular display of lights during family-friendly countdowns at 7 and 8 p.m. There will also be music with a live DJ and just like other nights, guests can stroll a 3/4-mile path around the Zoo and take in dozens of larger-than-life, handcrafted lanterns in an experience of sound, light and color. 

 

“There’s no better way to kick off the New Year than surrounded by glowing lanterns, music and family fun,” said CEO Richard E. Glover, Jr. “With spectacular lanterns and our early countdowns, it’s the perfect opportunity to welcome 2026 with family and friends!”

 

Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild continues on select nights through January 18, 2026. Single general admission tickets are $26.99 for general admission or save 20% on a Family 4-Pack for $88. Passholders will still enjoy discounted rates of $23 per ticket or $80 per Family 4-Pack. 

 

Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to lock in the best rates and secure preferred dates and times. Tickets must be purchased online for designated timed entry. Exclusive food and beverage items will be available for purchase.

 

Guests can purchase timed entry tickets here or visit www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/ for more information. Parking is free.

 

The festival is presented in partnership with Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.

 

For more information about Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, visit https://www.centralfloridazoo.org/lanterns/.

 

To view or download high-resolution photos and video, click here.

 

About the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens 

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is home to more than 350 animals in Sanford, Florida. As a not-for-profit organization, it is a leader in conservation, creating connections that inspire people to take action for wildlife. More information is available atwww.centralfloridazoo.org.

 

Media Contact:  

William Wellons 

Wellons Communications 

407-339-0879 

will@wellonscommunications.com

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