There’s A Chinese Lantern Festival Happening In Arizona And It’s Downright Magical
Chinese lantern festivals are downright mesmerizing, and there’s one happening right now in Arizona that features hundreds of eye-popping, larger-than-life displays. It’s at Reid Park Zoo, but only until March 29 — so what are you waiting for?
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For the second year in a row, more than 400 larger-than-life Asian lanterns are illuminating the Reid Park Zoo. Prepare for a whirlwind journey to the Orient as you explore the festival, indulge in authentic cuisine, and watch live entertainment.
Approximately 80% of the displays are brand new, so even if you attended last year, it's basically a whole new event this time around. You'll see some of the same traditional symbols, like the all-important dragon, but they've been reimagined in the most unique, creative ways possible.
Although it's an Asian lantern festival, you'll traverse the entire globe. Get lost in the deep sea, walk with dinosaurs, and trek through the desert alongside a pair of camels.
Martial arts, dance, and music performances showcase different aspects of Asian culture. There will also be crafts and games like Chinese Checkers, Mah Jong, and even an origami station. With so much to do, the festival proves an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.
As if the lanterns don't provide enough light on their own, thousands more glittering bulbs ensure not a single inch of space remains dark. There's even an interactive lighted floor in the Expedition Tanzania exhibit!
Address: 3400 Zoo Court,
Tucson, AZ 85716. The festival will take place from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday thru March 1, and nightly from March 5-March 29.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
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