Illuminate your Budapest trip – Spring Lantern Magic opens at Budapest Zoo

The Lightdome might have just bid farewell (you can still flick through the photos here), but Budapest Zoo didn't let us wait long for a new spectacle. From March 18th to April 21st, you can not only meet the long-term residents but also explore 'creatures of the light' in the eastern gardens (on the right side of the circus when looking from the Állatkerti körút).

Spring Lantern Magic spoils us with hundreds of artworks, arranged across several locations. Some depict animals, plants, or mythological creatures straight out of fairy tales. Marvel at lampion figures shaped like majestic tigers, graceful butterflies, birds and reptiles, giant pandas or gorillas. You can encounter extinct animals such as pouched wolves, and polar bears evoking the Arctic landscape. You can also immerse yourself in marine life with fish, rays and jellyfish.

The collection, crafted by Chinese artists from Sichuan province, also transports you through diverse cultures. Explore Chinese civilization with dragons and figures of Qin-Shi Huangdi. Then, spot Egyptian pyramids, Slavic icons like Father Frost and Snowflake, and even Van Gogh's 'Vase with Twelve Sunflowers.'

Beyond the lanterns, don't miss out on the chance to pet adorable farm animals, including baby goats and lambs. Enter the Shark School, showcasing a lantern attraction with sharks, rays, swordfish and other interesting marine animals every evening until 9:30 pm. Take a whirl on the 116-year-old carousel, featuring gorgeous wooden horses, or hop on the little train for a ride. When working up an appetite, you can settle down and have some bites near the Wildlife Rescue Centre, where scones, strudel and other delicacies await. And there – that's a family day well spent.