China Light / Magic Ocean ZOO Antwerpen
An annual winter light festival where hundreds of handmade Chinese lanterns and illuminated figures turn Antwerp Zoo into a nighttime light paradise.
ⓘ Recurring event. The 2026 date is the usual window; confirm the exact date closer to the event.
Drive winter family visits and tourism to Antwerp Zoo through immersive light-art experiences and seasonal holiday positioning.
- Behind-the-scenes lantern-making craftsmanship and cultural storytelling
- Family photo moments: Instagram-worthy light installations for holiday content
- Early-bird ticket promotions tied to school holiday calendars
- Partner with local hotels/restaurants for bundled winter experience packages
After several years at Planckendael Zoo, the China Light festival returns to Zoo Antwerpen. From 24 October 2025 to 4 January 2026, the zoo is bathed in light. Magic Ocean immerses visitors in a mysterious underwater world filled with luminous creatures, colorful figures, and enchanting atmospheres. All figures and moving installations are custom-made for Zoo Antwerpen by 130 Chinese light artists. ["Glowing underwater creatures: dancing jellyfish, water dragons, graceful mermaids, sea turtles, rays, tropical fish and coral creatures","Giant octopus (25 meters) with luminous tentacles, plus whale, Poseidon temple, and gateway dragon installations","Interactive light displays and photo selfie spots including inside a shark's mouth; winter bars with fire pits","50+ custom light objects throughout the zoo, created by 130 Chinese and Belgian light artists","Food courts at Ocean Plaza (fries, churros) and Coral Bay winter bar at end of trail","Family-friendly evening experience combining light art with dining and warmth in winter season"]
24 Oct 2025 - 4 Jan 2026 (Thu–Sun)
Festival open Thursday to Sunday throughout the run
School & Christmas holidays
Open daily during autumn and Christmas school holidays (except 24 & 31 December)
Opening times
Closes at 22:00; dinner available from Grand Café Flamingo from 16:00 before festival start