Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Chattanooga Zoo Hosts Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy, Boosting Holiday Tourism with Stunning Lantern Displays and Family Fun- Check Out Now Published on
November 20, 2025The Asian Lantern Festival: Forest of Fantasy is set to light up the Chattanooga Zoo from November 21 to January 17, 2026, bringing a festive blend of art, culture, and holiday cheer to the city. This captivating event has quickly become one of the most anticipated winter festivals in the area, attracting both locals and tourists eager to experience its unique displays. Featuring hundreds of intricately designed lanterns up to 26 feet tall, the festival creates a magical atmosphere that combines Chinese lantern traditions with Christmas classics and mythical creatures.As it enters its fourth year, the Asian Lantern Festival is a significant contributor to Chattanooga’s growing tourism industry. This year’s festival, titled “Forest of Fantasy,” promises to be bigger and more immersive than ever before. The event is not only a visual spectacle but also an engaging, interactive experience for visitors of all ages, cementing its place as a must-visit destination during the holiday season.Advertisement A Festival That Lights Up the NightThe Asian Lantern Festival is a stunning showcase of handcrafted lanterns made of silk, which are reminiscent of traditional Chinese lantern festivals. The festival features nearly 50 distinct displays that span the entire zoo, transforming the space into a glowing, whimsical wonderland. From towering dragons and unicorns to Santa Claus, snowmen, and reindeer, the lanterns are designed to evoke both the fantasy of mythical creatures and the joy of the holiday season.What sets this year’s festival apart is the addition of interactive elements. Many of the lantern displays move, change colors, and play music, providing a dynamic experience that constantly evolves as visitors explore. For example, certain displays feature walkable floors that light up, creating a sense of magic with every step. Visitors can also engage with stationary bicycles that blow bubbles, enhancing the immersive experience for families and young children.AdvertisementOne of the most captivating features of the Forest of Fantasy is the walk-through kaleidoscopic light tunnel, where guests can immerse themselves in swirling colors and patterns, further heightening the sense of wonder. The festival’s interactive nature ensures that it is not only a visual feast but also a highly engaging and memorable event.A Boost for Chattanooga’s Tourism IndustryThe Asian Lantern Festival has become a key player in Chattanooga’s winter tourism, attracting thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond. As the festival h …
