The Largest Chinese Lantern Festival in the U.S. Returns to the Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo is a great place to visit even on a normal day, but this time of year, they really kick things up a notch with an annual event that will blow you away.

What to do at the Nashville Zoo

Middle Tennessee's best family attraction is a chance to visit all your favorite animals in one place. With Lions, Tigers, and Bears, (oh my!) playgrounds, and even interactive animal experiences. You can get a backstage pass to give a rhino a back stretch or share snacks with a red panda. Not to mention the animal shows, keeper talks, carousel and train rides that make your visit special.

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Thousands of Chinese Lanterns at Zoolumination

And talk about special, the Nashville Zoo is now all aglow with thousands of incredible custom-made Chinese silk lanterns for Zoolumination. When you visit through February 9th, you'll see everything in a whole new light. America's Largest Lantern Festival is bigger and brighter than ever with new displays. Some of which are over 100 feet long and 50 feet tall! Here is a video sneak peek:

Party Animals

It wouldn't be the zoo without animals and while a lot of them go to bed with the sun, some of them like to stay up and party. So, you'll still be able to see cool creatures like the Sumatran tiger, Andean bear, and flamingos whose bedtimes aren't until 8:30 pm.  Unseen New World, the indoor area with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and even bats will be open to explore as well.

Chinese Food, Ice Skating, and Santa

Live entertainment takes the stage each night, there is hot chocolate and grown-up drinks available as well as Chinese food, pizza, and other festive snacks. You'll need your energy to skate on the Smashville Ice Rink. North Pole Village is full of decorated trees and beautiful lights as you make your way to see Santa. I wonder what his favorite animal is? Probably reindeer, right?

How to Get Tickets to Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo

Tickets range from $21-$39 depending on what you want to do. For more information, a schedule of events, and to buy tickets, visit https://www.nashvillezoo.org/zoolumination.