If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably hit that moment where you’re staring at your weekend calendar thinking: Okay… now what? And that’s when the Columbus Zoo swoops in like a bald eagle with a killer events calendar.
Let’s be honest: the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium isn’t just a place to stare at a giraffe while holding a pretzel (although, yes, that’s also a good time). It’s a year-round hub for glowing lantern festivals, conservation galas, Halloween trick-or-treat trails, and sensory-friendly moments that make everyone feel welcome.
So whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic light stroll, or just trying to find something to do besides scrolling your phone again, here’s a roundup of all the upcoming events at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium that are 100% worth putting on your calendar.
Lantern Festival
July 31 – October 5, 2025 (Thursdays–Sundays, 7:30–10:30 p.m.)
If you’ve never walked through a glowing tunnel of mythical animal lanterns while surrounded by wild animals, you haven’t lived. The Zoo’s Lantern Festival is back with 70+ handcrafted LED displays, light-up rides, and so much more.
Heads up: The Zoo closes this down on September 19 for a fancy gala (see Untamed event below), so plan accordingly.
Franklin County Community Days
August 17–18, 2025
Franklin County residents, this one’s for you: show proof of residency and get half-price admission to the Zoo. There’ll be local nonprofit booths, activities, and even special appearances from some distinguished Columbus Zoo guests!
U.S. Navy Fairwinds Woodwind Quintet at the Zoo
August 22, 2025
A free live concert (included in admission) from the Navy’s Fairwinds Woodwind Quintet, right in the middle of the Zoo. A chill, family-friendly event with patriotic vibes and probably one very enthusiastic clarinet solo (perhaps an appearance from Squidward?)
Blind, Deaf & DeafBlind Accessibility Day
September 7, 2025 (9 a.m.–5 p.m.)
An inclusive day featuring tactile experience maps, sensory kits, ASL interpreters, and quiet zones designed to make the Zoo more accessible for everyone. It’s a great example of how the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is trying to create meaningful experiences for all guests.
Untamed: An Evening of Conservation Impact
September 19, 2025 (6–10 p.m.)
Part fundraiser, part cocktail party, all-around awesome. This annual gala includes a seated dinner, open bar, silent auction, animal encounters, and a chance to dress “zoo formal,” which I can only assume means sparkly dress meets jungle print. Funds raised support conservation efforts here and around the world.
Koala Tea Party
September 28, 2025 (3–5 p.m.)
It’s exactly what it sounds like, and somehow even cuter. Hosted near the Koala habitat, this ticketed event includes finger sandwiches, story time, tea (obviously), and a rare keeper-led tour. Also, you get to meet Sydney Koala, one of the Zoo’s character ambassadors. If that doesn’t sell it, you might be beyond help.
Sensory-Friendly Halloween Character Meet & Treat
September 29, 2025 (10 a.m.–2 p.m.)
A low-stimulation Halloween event with costumes, character meet-and-greets, and plenty of time to soak it in without overwhelming sound or flashing lights. Ticket required, and they go fast.
Boo at the Zoo
October 10–12, 17–19, 24–26, 2025
The Zoo goes full spooky (but like, kid-friendly spooky). There’s trick-or-treating across themed regions of the park, rides, games, fall treats, and lots of mini Spider-Mans running around hopped up on Skittles. Costumes are encouraged for adults, too, if you’re brave enough (and are accompanying a child).
Sensory-Friendly Light Stroll (Wildlights Preview)
November 19, 2025 (5:30–8:30 p.m.)
Members get a quiet, early look at the Wildlights display without the usual crowds and sensory overload. Lower volume, early start time, and a calming way to take in all the twinkle. Registration is required.
Wildlights
November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Yes, it’s already time to think about Christmas. This beloved annual event turns the Zoo into a winter light wonderland with millions of LED lights, festive music, animated displays, and holiday treats. Santa shows up. So does that giant snowman light sculpture thingy. Included with Zoo admission, no separate ticket needed.
RendeZOO 2026
May 30, 2026
It’s a little ways off, but if you like dressing up, sipping cocktails, and throwing your wallet at a good cause, put this on your radar. It’s the Zoo’s most glamorous fundraising event of the year, and it will sell out.
TL;DR – Here’s What’s Coming Up
| Event | Date(s) | TL;DR Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Lantern Festival | Jul 31 – Oct 5, 2025 | Glowing Lanterns fill the Zoo at night |
| Franklin County Days | Aug 17–18, 2025 | Half-price for locals, character meetups |
| Navy Quintet Concert | Aug 22, 2025 | Live patriotic music in a chill zoo setting |
| Accessibility Day | Sept 7, 2025 | ASL, tactile tours, sensory support |
| Untamed Gala | Sept 19, 2025 | Cocktail party for a cause |
| Koala Tea Party | Sept 28, 2025 | Tea party + koalas = yes please |
| Halloween Meet & Treat | Sept 29, 2025 | Sensory-friendly costume event |
| Boo at the Zoo | Oct weekends, 2025 | Trick-or-treat + rides + family fun |
| Sensory Light Stroll | Nov 19, 2025 | Quiet preview of Wildlights |
| Wildlights | Nov 21 – Jan 4, 2026 | Holiday lights, Santa, festive zoo magic |
| RendeZOO | May 30, 2026 | Glam zoo gala with drinks and dancing |
So, What’s There to Do at the Columbus Zoo?
If you’re still asking that question after reading everything above, you may need to be checked for a concussion. But if you still want to know, we’ll indulge you.
Every day at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is like a choose‑your‑own‑adventure. Wander through eight immersive regions (think Polar Frontier, Asia Quest, Heart of Africa…), hop on the train, ride the carousel, or dive into the aquarium and manatee rescue center. Plus, seasonal programs, keeper talks, rides at Adventure Cove, splash in Zoombezi Bay, and interactive encounters with Character Ambassadors make the whole place pop with energy.
What Are the New Attractions or Experiences?
- Lantern Festival 2025: mythical beasts, interactive stomp‑pad lanterns, light swings, shower clouds, and a glow‑lined Zoo Train ride through North America Trek after dark.
- North America Trek renovation reopened June 2025 with upgraded habitats, cleaner trails, and fresh interactive features (Zoo train route now includes lanterns!).
How Much Is the Lantern Festival?
- Standard ticket tiers typically range $20–$27 per person depending on purchase time and promotions .
- Zoo Members and specific group discounts: $19 per adult, $16 per child under 10, free for 0–2 years. Be aware: this is a separate fee from Zoo daytime admission. If you want both, look into the Roar and Return package which lets you visit both during the day and come back for the Lantern Festival at night.
What Makes Columbus Zoo & Aquarium Unique?
- Innovative festivals like Lantern Festival, Wildlights (winter), Boo at the Zoo, and Untamed.
- Character Ambassadors like Sydney Koala, who keep your kids engaged and excited.
- Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Center inside Shores & Aquarium, one of just a handful of places outside Florida to house and rehabilitate manatees; plus Discovery Reef’s 85,000‑gallon live coral shark tank.
- A global impact on conservation and the funding of important international programs, gorilla breeding, wolf recovery, and more.
Discover more Events & Festivals in Columbus Here!
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