Giant Lanterns of China returning to Edinburgh Zoo

Following the success of the event last winter Edinburgh Zoo has told us today that the Giant Lanterns of China are coming back this year. From 15 November to 26 January 2020 the lanterns which feature hundreds of prehistoric creatures will be spotted around the zoo.

Over 600 lanterns will display 570 million years of incredible wildlife from the first array of microbes to the time when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

The first shipment arrived from Sichuan in China last week, having travelled over 5,000 miles by train and boat. This is where the pandas Yuang Guang and Tian Tian were both born.

Lyndy Donaldson, events and experiences manager at Edinburgh Zoo, said “We are thrilled to be bringing Giant Lanterns back to the Zoo this winter and really excited about our new theme.

“Giant Lanterns Lost Worlds will offer visitors the opportunity to discover the amazing creatures that once lived on our planet and help us raise awareness of the very real threat of extinction faced today by endangered species around the world.

“This year’s event is bigger and better than ever with over 600 stunning lanterns spread over a longer route. Highlights include a tyrannosaurus rex, a 32-foot-tall volcano, a gigantic 65-foot-long snake as well as some new interactive elements. As Scotland’s only Chinese lantern festival, it’s a fantastic experience for all the family.”

Tickets for Giant Lanterns Lost Worlds start at £8.50 for children and £17 for adults and are now available at www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/lanterns. The event runs from 15 November 2019 to 26 January 2020. Visitors are encouraged to book online in advance to secure their preferred date and time.