As night falls over the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a breathtaking transformation takes place. The Lantern Festival, running now through September 29, turns the Zoo into an enchanting world of light and art. This spectacular event is not just a celebration of nature, beauty, and craftsmanship; it is a journey through history, inspired by the artistry of ancient China and brought to life by modern innovation.
The Origins of the Lantern Festival
The festival is produced by Hanart Culture, an organization with roots in Toronto, Ontario, that began in 2003 as a promoter of martial arts and acrobatic performances. By 2012, Hanart had expanded its focus to include the production of lantern festivals and animatronic dinosaur shows. Their dedication to celebrating and sharing cultural heritage is evident in every detail of the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival.
A Nod to the Past: Han Dynasty Inspiration
The Lantern Festival at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium draws inspiration from the rich artistic traditions of the Han Dynasty, a period dating back over 2,000 years. This ancient dynasty is known for its deep spiritual connection to the worship of Buddha, and its influence can be seen in the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the lanterns that are featured. Over the centuries, the festival has evolved into a stunning blend of light, color, and elaborate designs, reflecting both historical craftsmanship and modern technology.
The Art of Lantern Making
Creating the lanterns for the festival is a monumental task that requires nearly 30,000 hours of meticulous handcrafting. Each lantern is made from a combination of rayon, satin, paint, and steel wires, and involves a detailed 12-step process:
- In-house theme and concept design
- In-house artistic design
- Full-scale plotting
- Preparation for sculpting
- Three-dimensional sculpting
- Rust-proof treatment
- Light bulb wiring
- Color fabric skinning
- Artistic painting after skinning
- Packaging for shipping
- Onsite installation
- Lighting test
This intricate process involves 35 skilled lantern artists who work for 45 days to create hundreds of unique creatures and decorative pieces. The final installation is carried out by a team of 19 lantern professionals, ensuring that each piece is perfectly positioned and illuminated by energy-efficient LED bulbs, saving approximately 85% in energy consumption.
A Global Journey
The journey of these lanterns begins in Sichuan Province, southwest China, and spans over 7,600 miles to reach Columbus. The logistics of transporting the lanterns and props are impressive, involving multiple modes of transportation, including trucks, rivers, oceans, and railways. This complex journey is a testament to the dedication and passion that goes into bringing the Lantern Festival to life.
Details to Delight
Visitors to the Columbus Zoo’s Lantern Festival are encouraged to appreciate the incredible attention to detail in each scene. From the expressive faces of animals like cheetahs and red pandas to the playful attitude of a winking octopus, every lantern tells a story and invites guests to look closer.
Guests will also notice that lanterns are strategically placed near the actual species’ habitat or region at the Zoo…pretty incredible!
A Perfect Match: Columbus Zoo and the Lantern Festival
The Columbus Zoo is the ideal setting for the Lantern Festival, celebrating the natural beauty of the wild, flora, and fauna. The festival's combination of color, light, sound, and animatronics creates a sophisticated display that enhances the Zoo's commitment to inspiring guests and protecting wildlife around the world.
More Than Just Lanterns
In addition to the stunning lanterns, the festival offers a variety of cultural performances, including Kung Fu shows and Chinese puppetry known as Shadow Play. These performances add an extra layer of cultural richness and entertainment to the festival experience.
A Celebration of Beauty and Love
The Lantern Festival is a celebration of beauty, love, and the shared values between cultures. Just as American artists have made significant contributions to the world, Chinese culture has much to offer, and this festival is a beautiful way to share it. The universal themes of family reunion, love, and gratitude are woven into the fabric of the festival, making it a perfect occasion for families, friends, and couples to enjoy together.
A Shared Journey
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's Lantern Festival is a reminder of the shared appreciation for wonder and entertainment that unite us. It celebrates the wellbeing of both humans and the natural world, encouraging us to protect the globe and cherish our diverse cultures.
As you explore the festival, take in the dazzling displays, enjoy the performances, and let the beauty of this cultural celebration inspire you. We are honored to share this experience with you and wish you a wonderful evening at the Lantern Festival.
