CALGARY – Lantern giraffes, rhinos and zebras are all part of a brand new festival in Calgary this fall.
The ILLUMINASIA Lantern and Garden Festival brings 336 authentic handcrafted Chinese lanterns together with some of Calgary’s favourite zoo characters.
The animals are created from a 3D metal fame, wrapped in silk rayon, handpainted and airbrushed.
Culturally symbolic animals such as the crane and iconic Chinese symbols like the Phoenix are also showcased.
The Dorothy Harvie Gardens provides the backdrop through lush mosaic cultures and vegetation tapestries. Visitors will also experience authentic Chinese, Japanese and Indian entertainment and programs that spotlight food, garden, art and culture.
Each week of celebration focuses on a different country.
ILLUMINASIA opened Sept. 17 and continues until Nov. 1.
Global personalities Amber Schnikle, Scott Fee and Gord Gillies are helping to host the event.
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