Chinese Lantern Festival returns with new name
In 2018, our eyes are once again in for a treat.
The Ohio Chinese Lantern Festival will return to the Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds with brand new light sculptures, more exciting performances and more cultural experiences. This year it has a new name: Dragon Lights Columbus.
The display featuring more than 40 larger-thanlife lantern sculptures will be held from Friday, Nov. 23, to Jan. 6 within the Natural Resources Park at the Ohio State Expo Center and Fairgrounds, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus.
Dragon Lights will also celebrate Asian Folk Culture with professional acrobatic performances, a panda themed marketplace, popular Chinese handicraft arts, and a wide selection of food and beverages.
Tickets range from $1419 per person, and will be available for purchase at the festival entrance, or online at https://dragonlightscolumbus.com/. It’s recommended to purchase tickets online to skip the line and also save some money.
Additional indoor space will be added to this year’s festival within the Donahey Ag/Hort Building, which is adjacent to the Natural Resources Park. Lantern displays will be both indoors and outdoors.
New family-friendly additions
WANT TO GO?
Dragon Lights Columbus
Nov. 23- Jan. 6. Hours are 5:30-10 p.m. The festival is closed on Mondays, except Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.
Ohio State Fairgrounds, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus Go online to https:// dragonlightscolumbus. com. Also go on Facebook (search “Dragon Lights Columbus”). include a giant elephant whose colors can be changed as visitors pedal on the bike next to it, interactive moon-shaped swings that glow in the dark, and many more animated displays. In addition to this year’s new themes and displays, some traditional and popular Chinese elements from previous years will remain.
The iconic 200-foot-long Chinese dragon will also return with a whole new look that will wow guests.
Food and beverages
Throughout the festival a wide variety of Asian and Western food will be available, ranging from Dan Dan Noodle to hot dogs. More Asian food vendors will be added to the festival this year as well. Beverages will include alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. Hot chocolate and hot cider will be available, as well.
Vendors will service two concession areas — one inside the Donahey Ag/Hort Building and the other under the pavilion near Smoky Bear. Both areas have seating available.
For more information, go online to https://dragonlightscolumbus.com.