This large-scale outdoor exhibition brings together Chinese craftsmanship and the wonders of nature, transforming the familiar zoo setting into a glowing night-time landscape filled with illuminated wildlife from across the globe.

Each lantern is hand-crafted by artisans from Zigong, China, a city renowned for its lantern-making tradition. Using a mix of traditional techniques and modern LED technology, they’ve created lifelike depictions of creatures great and small – from butterflies and birds to elephants and endangered species.

As darkness falls, the zoo becomes a dreamlike world of colour and light, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace. The event offers a fascinating blend of art, culture, and environmental awareness, appealing to all ages.

Beyond its visual appeal, the festival also reflects the ongoing cultural exchange between Hungary and China, celebrating both creative collaboration and shared appreciation of nature’s beauty.

The festival is open evenings only, making it an ideal choice for a family outing or a different kind of date night this winter.

Venue:
Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden
Állatkerti körút 6–12, 1146 Budapest

Dates:
October 17, 2025 – February 22, 2026

Opening Hours:
October 17–31, 2025: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Gates open at 6:00 PM)
November 1, 2025 – February 22, 2026: Friday–Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Gates open at 5:00 PM)

Important Times:
Last Entry: 8:20 PM
Ticket Office Closes: 8:20 PM
You can secure tickets in advance online, often at a reduced price.

Advance Ticket Prices:

• Adult: 4,400 HUF

• Child (ages 2–18): 3,100 HUF

• Infant (under 2 years): 300 HUF

• Senior: 3,900 HUF

• Family Ticket (2 adults + 1 child): 10,800 HUF

• Additional Child with family ticket: +2,700 HUF / person

• Group Ticket (Adults, 10+ people): 3,900 HUF / person

• Group Ticket (Children, 10+ people): 2,700 HUF / person
   

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Zoo Budapest