NOVEMBER 7 – JANUARY 10
5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Aquarium Members get 15% off. SNAP, EBT, and WIC are not accepted for this event.
The beloved Aquarium Lantern Festival returns with a dazzling blend of last year’s favorites and all-new, breathtaking lanterns.
Discover the outdoor Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza in a whole new light as larger-than-life, nature-inspired lanterns illuminate the night sky and spark your imagination.
Let the Aquarium Lantern Festival be your escape into a stunning winter wonderland—where magic, nature, and light come alive.
The Aquarium Lantern Festival is a special after-hours event held from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Separate Ticket Required: Admission to the Lantern Festival is not included with a regular daytime ticket. A separate Lantern Festival ticket must be purchased to attend.
- Indoor Access: Guests may explore the inside of the Aquarium during the festival. However, some animals may be asleep, and all indoor habitats close at 9:00 p.m.
- Daytime + Lantern Festival Visitors: Guests who purchase both a daytime ticket and a Lantern Festival ticket must exit the Aquarium by 5:00 p.m. and re-enter at 5:30 p.m. for the evening event.
PURCHASE TICKETS
Secure your tickets now for the best price! Aquarium Members get 15% off.
Adult | Starting at $18.95
Teen | Starting at $15.95
Child | Starting at $13.95
Children 2 and under are free. Students, seniors, and military are eligible for discounts. SNAP, EBT, and WIC are not accepted for this event.
Aquarium Lantern Festival Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Aquarium Lantern Festival is an after-hours event and requires a separate ticket. Daytime guests must exit the Aquarium by 5:00 p.m.
Yes. All of the lantern displays are located outside on the Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza.
Please dress accordingly and prepare for current weather conditions.
The Lantern Festival runs from 5:30–10:00 p.m. You’re welcome to arrive anytime, but please note that lines are typically longer right at 5:30 p.m. The inside of the Aquarium closes at 9:00 p.m.
We understand plans can change! If you need to reschedule your Lantern Festival visit, please email [email protected] with your confirmation number and the new date you’d like to attend. Our team will be happy to assist you.
At this time, we do not offer group ticket discounts for the Lantern Festival. All guests, including groups, must purchase individual tickets.
The experience typically takes about 2 hours. We recommend allowing at least an hour and a half so you have plenty of time to enjoy the lantern displays, explore the galleries, and take photos. Larger groups may wish to plan for a bit more time.
Yes, the inside of the Aquarium will be open from 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. However, some animals may be asleep.
Please note: Tuki’s Island: Play & Party Center is not open during Lantern Festival hours.
Plan Ahead & Save to get the best deal. Aquarium Members save an additional 15% off.
Museums-for-all does not apply to the Lantern Festival and is only valid for daytime admission only.
The Café inside the Aquarium will be open until 9:00 p.m., and plaza concessions will remain available until the event closes at 10:00 p.m. Food and drinks are available for purchase at both locations. Outside food is not permitted, but you are welcome to bring an empty water bottle to refill at our stations.
The Lantern Festival will be held rain or shine. In the event of severe weather and cancellation, tickets will be transferable.
The Lantern Festival will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
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The Aquarium itself is open for daytime guests on New Year’s Eve and has limited hours on Christmas Eve.
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The Aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Yes. All Aquarium buildings and Lantern Festival spaces are wheelchair-accessible.
Outdoor areas are subject to winter weather such as rain, snow, or ice. Paths and ramps are maintained, but please use caution when navigating in icy conditions.
*Warning: May contain bright, flashing lights that may potentially trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
Some areas of the Rio Tinto Kennecott Plaza will be closed during the day.
Thank you to our sponsor!
