Jacksonville, Florida, February 3, 2026
The annual ‘Colors of the Wild’ event at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens will conclude soon, featuring over 1,200 illuminated lanterns that transport visitors through various cultural themes. Running until February 8, 2026, the event highlights include a mesmerizing display of handcrafted lanterns showcasing themes such as The Depths of the Ocean and The African Savanna, alongside special nights featuring activities like a Pokémon Go Lantern Safari. Attendees can also enjoy the enchanting Winter Wonderland ambiance as the zoo transforms under the glow of lights.
Jacksonville’s ‘Colors of the Wild’ Event Approaches Finale
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens’ annual ‘Colors of the Wild’ event is set to conclude on Sunday, February 8, 2026. This captivating exhibition features over 1,200 illuminated lanterns, offering visitors a mesmerizing journey through diverse landscapes and cultures.
Event Highlights
- Dates: Select nights from November 22, 2025, to February 8, 2026.
- Time: 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each event night.
- Location: Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
- Ticket Information: Tickets include same-day zoo admission starting at 3:00 p.m. Prices vary by season, with peak pricing during November and December, and lower rates in January and February. Military discounts do not apply to this event. Children aged 2 and under enter free of charge. Food and refreshments are available for purchase on-site.
Event Themes and Attractions
This year’s ‘Colors of the Wild’ showcases an entirely new collection of handcrafted lanterns, guiding visitors through:
- The Depths of the Ocean: Explore the mysteries beneath the sea.
- The African Savanna: Experience the vastness and wildlife of the savanna.
- Mystical Creatures from Asia: Encounter legendary beings from Asian folklore.
As twilight descends, the zoo transforms into a shimmering Winter Wonderland, adding a festive glow to the evening. Each lantern display tells a unique story about wildlife, mythology, and the natural world, celebrating the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Special Events and Activities
Throughout the exhibition, the zoo offers various themed activity nights, including:
- Pokémon Go Lantern Safari: January 16, 2026 – Explore glowing lanterns while catching Pokémon in this community-focused adventure.
- Community Night: January 19, 2026 – Enjoy discounted admission featuring dazzling lantern displays and live cultural performances.
- Wine and Pigments: January 29, 2026 – Participate in a guided painting experience in the Land of the Tiger exhibit.
- Dungeons and Dragons Night: February 7, 2026 – Engage in a unique Dungeons and Dragons adventure amidst the lantern displays.
Weather Forecast for the Final Weekend
For those planning to attend in the final days, the weather forecast is as follows:
## Weather for Jacksonville, FL: Current Conditions: Clear, 37°F (3°C) Daily Forecast: * Tuesday, February 3: Low: 37°F (3°C), High: 63°F (17°C), Description: Partly sunny * Wednesday, February 4: Low: 46°F (8°C), High: 71°F (22°C), Description: Partly sunny with a shower in the area late in the afternoon * Thursday, February 5: Low: 36°F (2°C), High: 57°F (14°C), Description: Partly sunny, breezy and cooler * Friday, February 6: Low: 44°F (6°C), High: 65°F (18°C), Description: Plenty of sun * Saturday, February 7: Low: 36°F (2°C), High: 69°F (20°C), Description: Plenty of sunshine * Sunday, February 8: Low: 43°F (6°C), High: 67°F (20°C), Description: Plenty of sunshine
About the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located on 122 acres in Jacksonville, Florida, is home to over 2,000 rare and exotic animals and more than 1,000 unique plant species. The zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts and offers a variety of educational and recreational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Contact Information
For more details or to purchase tickets, visit the official website of the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
Conclusion
The ‘Colors of the Wild’ event provides a splendid opportunity for Jacksonville residents and visitors alike to celebrate nature, culture, and community. With a variety of themes and special activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this unique experience as it comes to a close!
FAQ
What are the dates for the ‘Colors of the Wild’ event?
The event runs select nights from November 22, 2025, to February 8, 2026.
What time does the event start and end?
The event takes place from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each event night.
Where is the event located?
The event is hosted at the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, located at 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218.
Are tickets required for entry?
Yes, tickets are required and include same-day zoo admission starting at 3:00 p.m.
What are the themes featured this year?
This year’s themes include The Depths of the Ocean, The African Savanna, and Mystical Creatures from Asia.
What special activities are planned during the event?
Activities include a Pokémon Go Lantern Safari, Community Night, Wine and Pigments, and a Dungeons and Dragons Night.
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
