Since July 9, the annual Asian Lantern Festival has been lighting up Cleveland Metroparks Zoo—giving Zoo visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the handcrafted lanterns made by artisans in Zigong, China.

This year, the Asian Lantern Festival has more to look forward to than ever. Interactivity is a key focus of this year's lanterns. Throughout the zoo, multiple lanterns were designed with digital components that made the lanterns truly come to life.

When guests first walk through the Zoo gates, they are greeted by two giant lions—highlighting the tradition of lion dancing, which is a beloved celebration during the Lunar New Year (even at the Cleveland Lunar New Year celebrations).

One lantern provides a live, interactive view into the Louisville Zoo,The Lantern Festival lions were engineered so their eyes and mouths open and close. The technology and vividness of these lanterns make them the perfect introduction to the walk-through experience.

Another impressive display is a lantern that has a live view of the Louisville Zoo—allowing people in Cleveland to wave hello to people in Kentucky.

The Asian Lantern Festival provides entertainment for all ages. Near the woodland lanterns, there is an array of interactive lanterns. There are games that children can play, buttons that can be pushed to make the lanterns move, and instrument lanterns that can play music.

Throughout the zoo, animal lanterns were engineered to move, make noise, and even blow smoke out their noses. Additionally, there were plenty of photo opportunities with dazzling backgrounds where visitors can stop for photos.

The Asian Lantern Festival features culturally inspired cuisine and live performances to make guests feel truly immersed in the Asian Lantern Festival.

The bright displays have once again provided Northeast Ohioan with an experience like no other. The breathtaking handcrafted lanterns are a testament to the work of artisans and designers from Tianyu Arts & Culture, who have combined tradition with technology.

For those who have yet to attend the Asian Lantern Festival, there is still time. The festival ends Sunday, Aug. 23.

The walk-through experience takes place Thursdays through Sundays from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Drive-through experiences are also open on select nights from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

For additional details on these experiences and how to get tickets, guests can visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Asian Festival website.