World of Animals Chinese Lantern Festival 2025 at Budapest Zoo

Step Into a Magical World of Light and Art

Get ready for an enchanting experience at the World of Animals Chinese Lantern Festival, lighting up the Budapest Zoo from October 17, 2025, to February 22, 2026. This breathtaking event celebrates thousands of years of Chinese tradition while fostering Hungarian-Chinese cultural dialogue. Here, art, animals, and light come together in a spectacular evening display perfect for all ages.

Authentic Lantern Artistry From China

The festival features dazzling lanterns crafted by master artisans from Zigong, China—a city renowned for preserving the ancient art of lantern-making since the Tang and Song dynasties. These lanterns are made using modern steel wire frames, illuminated by LEDs, and dressed in colorful fabric. Enjoy extraordinary illuminated sculptures depicting animals, plants, fantasy creatures, and entire scenes—many of which are grand and surreal in scale.

Discover the Rich Diversity of Wildlife

The exhibition’s central theme is “Animals of the World.” Stroll through vibrant lantern scenes representing endangered animals from Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Oceania. Each animal is adorned with cultural motifs unique to its continent, blending natural beauty with symbolic regional art. The result is a festival that shines a light on wildlife conservation while spotlighting the cultural richness of diverse communities around the globe.

Evening Opening Times and Key Information

• October 17–31, 2025: Fridays to Sundays, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm (Gate opens at 6:00 pm, last entry 8:20 pm)
• November 1, 2025 – February 22, 2026: Fridays to Sundays, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm (Gate opens at 5:00 pm, last entry 8:20 pm)
• Special holiday opening: October 23 – November 2, and December 20 – January 4, open every day
• Closed: December 24, 25, 26, and 31

Tips for Visitors

• Dress comfortably for outdoor weather—this is an open-air exhibition.
• Food stalls and the ZooShop will be available at various points within the grounds.
• Restrooms and facilities for families with babies are at the Main Gate and Varázshegy.
• The entire event area is accessible for visitors with limited mobility.
• Only adults may accompany children under 14.
• Leave dogs, balloons, scooters, and bikes at home, as they are not allowed inside.
• Please follow designated paths, and do not climb on the lantern installations for your safety.
• Plan your journey: arrive by car (paid parking nearby) or take public transport (trolleybus 72 stops at the Zoo, nearest metro station is Széchenyi fürdő).

Ticket Information

• Adult: 5,500 HUF
• Child: 3,900 HUF
• Baby (under 2): 400 HUF
• Student and Senior: 3,900 HUF
• Buy tickets in advance before October 17 for a 20% discount! Advance tickets are valid for any festival night.
• Tickets can be purchased online or at onsite kiosks via card, SZÉP card, or cash.
• Entry on February 22, 2026, is onsite purchase only. Zoo passes and discounts do not apply.

A Night to Remember

Marvel at a kaleidoscopic world where endangered wildlife and ancient art traditions glow side by side. The festival is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of cultural connection and environmental awareness—a true highlight for any visit to Budapest this winter season.