Illustration of a winter festival with a lit Ferris wheel, a snow slide, a snowman and booths (Animals of the World Chinese Lantern Festival)

Animals of the World Chinese Lantern Festival

Visitors walk along designated outdoor pathways to view illuminated lantern sculptures crafted from steel wire, LEDs, and colorful fabrics by Zigong artisans. The installations depict endangered animals from across the globe paired with symbolic cultural motifs from each continent. The experience also features moving light effects and background music in areas such as the Japanese Garden and Palm House.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Hours

For the 2025–26 edition, Friday to Sunday, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM during November 1, 2025–February 22, 2026; gates opened at 5:00 PM, and last entry and the on-site ticket office closed at 8:20 PM. No 2026–27 times are given.

Food & Drink

Some outdoor catering units are open during the event, and visitors can browse products at the Zooshop.

Parking

Parking was available at ParkolóZoona or in paid parking spaces on Állatkerti körút.

Accessibility

The entire event area is accessible.

Pets

Dogs are not allowed inside the zoo.

Going?

Location

Budapest Zoo · H-1146 Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 6-12., Budapest Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of illuminated wildlife displays

Vibe

Colorful and enchanting

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, since the exhibition is outdoors and involves following visitor paths among the installations.
  • Use trolleybus 72, which stops in front of the zoo, or park at ParkolóZoona or paid spaces on Állatkerti körút.
  • Buy tickets online or at on-site machines; on February 22, 2026, tickets are available only for on-site purchase.
  • Keep children under 14 accompanied by an adult, and leave dogs, balloons, scooters, and bicycles outside the zoo.
  • Rain does not cancel the event, but check official online updates after 4:00 PM if extreme weather or power outages are possible.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pets, bicycles, or scooters allowed inside?

No, dogs, balloons, scooters, and bicycles are not permitted inside the zoo.

What happens if it rains?

The event takes place even in rainy weather, though it may be closed in the event of extreme weather conditions or prolonged power outages.

Can children visit on their own?

Children under 14 years old may only attend when accompanied by an adult.

Are regular zoo passes or discounts accepted?

No, regular zoo passes and discounts are not valid for this program.

Are food and drinks available on-site?

Yes, select outdoor catering units are open during the event, and visitors can also browse the Zooshop.

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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