Events

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Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights 2023
August 30 @ 6:30 pm - September 4 @ 10:30 pm

Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights presented by Five Star Bank’s final weekend is HERE! Packed with an ALL-NEW lineup of lanterns, it’s time to immerse yourself in the larger-than-life displays of beautiful florals, curious creatures from under the sea, and breathtaking landmarks from around the world. Watch nightly cultural performances at our newly built performance stage (showtimes are 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, and 9:00 pm), indulge in Asian-inspired food, relax in our Beer Garden with a specialty drink, and shop for artisan made goods all night long! Zoo attractions you know and love like the train and carousel will also be open. The possibilities are endless at this fan-favorite event!
When the sun goes down (and our animals are in bed for the night) the Zoo lights up with Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights. Visit any night Wednesday–Sunday from 6:30 pm–10:30 pm (ticket holders may enter any time between 6:30–9:45 pm) with one last evening on Labor Day Monday, September 4, 2023.
Wednesdays are value nights—each ticket type is discounted $1! Chateau Buffalo Winery will also be joining us every Wednesday from 6:30 pm–9:00 pm for FREE wine tastings inside the Beer Garden! Like what you taste? Full glasses will be available for purchase at the bar.
Plus, this Labor Day, all admission is $5 off. This applies to daytime admission and Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights Presented by Five Star Bank. Visit your favorite animal residents during the day then come back later to see the luminous lanterns and lights for Zoomagination’s FINAL NIGHT!
Tickets can be purchased online or in person for the most unforgettable event of the season!
PURCHASE TICKETS
Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights Presented by Five Star Bank does not feature the Buffalo Zoo’s animal collection. Discounted Labor Day tickets are valid on September 4, 2023 only. Previously purchased Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights tickets will be honored at their full price on September 4, 2023. Discount cannot be applied to previously purchased tickets nor will refunds be issued.
Wednesday Value Night Tickets:
Non-Member Adult (Ages 13+): $18.95
Non-Member Child (Ages 2–12): $14.95
Member Adult (Ages 13+): $15.95
Member Child (Ages 2–12): $11.95
23 Months and Under: FREE (But still needs a ticket to enter)
PURCHASE TICKETS
Thursday–Sunday Tickets:
Non-Member Adult (Ages 13+): $19.95
Non-Member Child (Ages 2–12): $15.95
Member Adult (Ages 13+): $16.95
Member Child (Ages 2–12): $12.95
23 Months and Under: FREE (But still needs a ticket to enter)
PURCHASE TICKETS
Labor Day Tickets:
Adult (Ages 13+): $14.95
Child (Ages 2–12): $10.95
23 Months and Under: FREE (But still needs a ticket to enter)
PURCHASE TICKETS
Tickets Description:
Each ticket for Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights at the Buffalo Zoo presented by Five Star Bank includes admission to our self-guided walking tour of our larger-than-life lantern displays.
Zoomagination is an immersive event designed to transport guests into a world of lanterns and lights. To ensure the best experience, please note the following:
- Our animals are not party animals and follow a daily routine. All indoor and outdoor exhibits are closed during the festival.
- Pre-paid, non-refundable, non-transferable tickets are required to attend Zoomagination. Should a ticket holder be unable to attend, your purchase will be considered a donation. There will be no refunds.
- Children 23 months and under are admitted free but still require reserved tickets. Simply select “23 Months and Under” for each child who meets the age requirement.
- Buffalo Zoo Members receive a special member discount. Please bring your valid Buffalo Zoo membership card and identification to the event. A $5.00 per ticket fee is charged for Members who cannot provide a valid Buffalo Zoo membership card and identification.
- Member level tickets are non-transferable. The Member’s name must be on all tickets purchased, and the Member must be present with a valid Buffalo Zoo membership card and identification at entry.
- Valid, non-expired ride tickets may be redeemed at Zoomagination for member pricing. Guest passes are not valid at Zoomagination.
- This event is held rain or shine. Dates and times are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
- Last entry is 9:45 pm.
- Your visit matters. Proceeds from Zoomagination support the care of our animals and our conservation efforts worldwide.