COLUMBUS, Ohio — For the first time, the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium will honor Asian culture with its own Lantern Festival this summer. 

The new family-friendly event starts Aug. 1 through Sept. 29 and will run Thursday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

The Columbus Zoo said it will include more than 60 LED light displays like multicolored animal lanterns, as well as shows featuring acrobats, kung fu demonstrations, puppetry shows and folk music performances. 

“We are excited to bring this extraordinary event to our community,” said Columbus Zoo and Aquarium President and CEO Tom Schmid in a press release. “The Lantern Festival is a modern take on an ancient tradition, and we are honored to showcase the incredible artistry and cultural richness of Asia. Our guests will have the unique opportunity to see these lanterns and enjoy the vibrant entertainment and cultural experiences.”

The zoo said the festival will highlight the evolution of lantern making from the Han Dynasty to present day, using modern materials and technology to bring the masterpieces to life. 

“This centuries-old craftsmanship take nearly 30,000 hours to design each shape, and each lantern guests see at the Columbus Zoo are all handcrafted by masters from Ziggong, China,” said George Zhao, president of Hanart Culture, the producer of the event in a press release. “Through vibrant displays and cultural performances, the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival celebrates the rich tapestry of Asian cultures, inviting the Central Ohio community and beyond to immerse themselves in a world of light, color, and tradition.”

Columbus Zoo said the Lantern Festival is a separate ticketed event and isn't included in zoo admissioon. 

Tickets are available now. For more information, click here.