This Boston Zoo is Celebrating Summer With a Lantern Festival — and a Giant Walk-Through Octopus Tunnel

A walk through the zoo filled with colorful lanterns sounds like a magical experience.

Back again this year through Sept. 25, Boston's Franklin Park Zoo (in collaboration with National Grid) is hosting a summertime evening experience featuring hundreds of beautiful, large-scale lanterns. Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience was the first-of-its-kind attraction in New England when it debuted in August 2020.

55 different displays can be viewed throughout the 72-acre park now through Sept. 25. Many lantern displays are inspired by nature, featuring rainforest scenes, traditional Asian lanterns, lotus and bamboo motifs, ocean creatures, and a 66-foot-long rose corridor. One of the best installations also includes an 82-foot-long octopus tunnel, complete with eyes that open and color-changing tentacles.

"We are thrilled to bring this unique experience to Franklin Park Zoo inspired by the beauty of the natural world, incredible wildlife, and rich cultural traditions," said John Linehan, president and CEO of Zoo New England, in a statement. "We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages as they immerse themselves in the beauty of the lights."

"This is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to enjoy the Franklin Park Zoo and all it has to offer," said Marcy Reed, retired president at National Grid, in a statement. "The zoo's programs and exhibits enhance our quality of life and we are pleased to do our part on behalf of the customers and communities we serve."

Besides providing a gorgeous night out, Boston Lights was created to highlight the importance of conserving biodiversity. Each species plays a role in our ecosystem, and the light installation offers education and information about conservation and habitat preservation. In an effort to be as green as possible, all the lanterns are also illuminated by energy-saving LED lights.

Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience is open nightly through Sept. 25. Prices vary by day but start at $22.95 for general admission for non-members (children ages 2 and under get in free). Family 4-Pack tickets are also available from $76.95 for non-members. The hours are 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

For more information or to book a ticket, visit the Franklin Park Zoo website.