Later this summer, visitors to Franklin Park Zoo will enjoy a memorable evening experience with hundreds of luminous, beautifully crafted large-scale lanterns. When Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience, presented by National Grid, debuts on August 21, it will be the first of its kind in New England.

“We are thrilled to bring this unique experience to Franklin Park Zoo inspired by the beauty of the natural world, incredible wildlife and rich cultural traditions. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages as they immerse themselves in the beauty of the lights,” said John Linehan, Zoo New England President and CEO.

Spanning the 72 acres of Franklin Park Zoo, Boston Lights will impress visitors of all ages with more than 50 large scale displays comprised of hundreds of colorful lanterns. Featuring stunning, dramatic entrance arches, a walk-through 66-foot-long shark tunnel, a 26-foot-tall giant panda, a 197-foot-long dragon, whimsical ocean scenes, vibrant flowers, traditional Asian lantern scenes and much more, the whole experience is sure to dazzle and delight.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy the Franklin Park Zoo and all it has to offer,” said Marcy Reed, President, National Grid, Massachusetts. “The zoo’s programs and exhibits enhance our quality of life and we are pleased to do our part on behalf of the customers and communities we serve.”

Boston Lights will also shine a light on the importance of conserving the incredible biodiversity on our planet. From snow leopards to Panamanian golden frogs to the local Blanding’s turtles, each species plays a role in healthy ecosystems. Visitors to Boston Lights will have the opportunity to learn more about our commitment to conservation and ways that they can participate in wildlife and habitat preservation. All of the lanterns are illuminated with energy saving LED lights.

The same health and safety measures in place for a daytime visit to the zoo are also in place for Boston Lights. These measures include advance online and timed ticketing for a designated day and time, guest capacity limits, one-way paths to control guest flow, clearly designated 6-foot distance markers, enhanced cleaning protocols, and more hand sanitizer stations throughout the zoo. In accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, visitors (over age 2) to the zoo are required to wear face coverings.

Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience at Franklin Park Zoo will open on August 21 and will be open nightly through Labor Day (Sept. 7), and Thursday-Sunday after Labor Day through November 1. The hours are 6:00 to 10:30 p.m. 

Tickets and full details

Zoo New England has partnered with Tianyu Arts and Culture to bring this experience to Franklin Park Zoo.