EARLY CLOSURE
The zoo will close early at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 28, 2024, for the Thanksgiving holiday.
WildLanterns
presented by BECU
November 15, 2024 – January 19, 2025
4:00 – 9:00 p.m.
ILLUMINATE YOUR HOLIDAYS
WildLanterns presented by BECU returns to Woodland Park Zoo this November with an all-new, immersive, wild wonder that promises a magical holiday experience for all!
For more information about accommodations and other safety protocols, see the WildLanterns FAQ.
BUY TICKETS
Get your tickets now!
Experience the Zoo Like Never Before
Experience the wild wonder of the holiday season as you traverse through the Mystical Forest where stunning creatures gleam brightly! Here, behold the magical forest train, mystical tree fairies and fantastical unicorns. Embark on a Journey on a Bright Desert Highway and see desert flora and fauna before discovering Marvelous Mammals where spectacular Northwest animals are vividly portrayed in lantern form. Family-favorite Interactive Lanterns are spread throughout the WildLanterns spaces. Let your imagination take flight in the Birds of Paradise zone, swan into this area where magnificent peacocks flaunt their flamboyant plumes and birds of a feather perch on enchanted branches. Finally, embark on a journey Under the Jungle Canopy and spot all the mischievous monkeys hiding in the foliage!
Download the Map
The WildLanterns map is also available for download: Download WildLanterns PDF map
Closure Dates
WildLanterns will be closed Mondays (except for December 16th, 23rd, and 30th). WildLanterns will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas day and New Year's eve. WildLanterns will be open New Year’s Day.
Beginning in January, WildLanterns will change to a Thursday – Sunday weekly opening and will be closed Mondays through Wednesdays.
Night Owls
(21+ Only)*
December 5, 2024 and January 2, 2025
Join us for the inaugural 21+ evenings at WildLanterns! Savor holiday specialty cocktails and noshes amidst enchanting lantern displays and a festive atmosphere. Explore themed lounges that transport guests to a magical world, along with exciting animal encounters guaranteed to be a hoot!
Be sure to select an entry time before 6:00 p.m. to meet our animal ambassadors—after that, they’ll be calling it a night. But don’t worry, your evening will just be getting started. With music setting the perfect mood and games to keep the energy soaring, you’ll be owl-in on the fun!
Buy Night Owl Tickets
*Ticket purchasers must be 21 or older. IDs will be checked upon entry. Tickets cover admission only; food and beverages are available for purchase at an additional cost. Additional discounts do not apply to Night Owls events.
MORE DETAILS
Private Snow Globes
Elevate Your WildLanterns Experience!
Whether it’s a night out with friends or a couple’s date night, or a night out with the family, take your WildLanterns experience to the next level by reserving a private Snow Globe!
Learn more and reserve your snow globe
Holiday Senior Stroll
November 19 and December 3, 2024, 4:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Cost: 40% off regular pricing*
Enjoy Holiday Senior Stroll presented by Aegis Living and its return to WildLanterns for two special nights. Holiday Senior Stroll is an all-age event, but it’s an opportunity to come together with our senior (65+) friends and family members to experience the wonder of these holiday works together.
*Ticket purchasers may be required to show ID to verify age for discount. Additional discounts do not apply to Holiday Senior Stroll.
The Frosted Glass
Enjoy a delicious holiday cocktail! WildLanterns’ premier 21 and over space is open November 29 – December 15, 2024, Thursdays through Sundays, and will be open every night December 19 – January 5, 2025. The Frosted Glass is located right across from the north meadow.
Nightly Activities at WildLanterns
Join in the magic and mystery as Woodland Park Zoo brings a special live traditional Chinese art performance to the 2024 WildLanterns season. Experience nightly performances of Lion Dance, Face Changing, Umbrella Juggling, Chair Balancing, and more! Discover these captivating displays of skill and culture at the PACCAR Auditorium, located at our South entrance.
Shop the ZooStore
The West store will be open from 4:00 to 9:30 p.m., and the South store will be open from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. during WildLanterns. Please be aware that hours of operation may vary based on staff availability.
Zoomazium Hours
Zoomazium is scheduled to be open for the duration of WildLanterns from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. daily. Please note that hours of operation may vary based on staff availability.
Corporate Events
Please send your event information to brambleandwoodevents@zoo.org for information on how we can assist you with your holiday festivities!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Low Sensory Nights
Enjoy the beauty and magic of the holiday season during WildLanterns Low Sensory nights.
On November 20, December 11, 2024 and January 9, 2025; WildLanterns will feature special low sensory experiences to provide a comfortable holiday adventure for everyone. This inclusive program, designed to cater to individuals and families of all abilities and requirements, will offer a warm and festive atmosphere amidst the captivating beauty of the holiday season and is welcome to all!
Zoomazium will transform into Zoomazium Nightlights presented by Kaiser Permanente, a designated low-sensory space with dimmed lighting and with owls and wind hooting and howling softly in the background. Families and guests will find several themed activities like neon coloring and a rotating activity facilitated by Zoomazium Instructors each night at 6:30 p.m.. Come enjoy a quieter moment with reduced sensory input during your visit to WildLanterns.
WildLanterns Social Story
Additional Resources Available
- Accessibility FAQs on the WildLanterns webpage with a social story
- Guest map with sensory friendly identifiers
- Sensory items available for check out at Guest Services
- Specialized docent carts (at Zoomazium and Discovery Loop during Sensory Friendly Nights only)
- Close captioning at Tianyu cultural performances
- Assisted listening devices available upon advanced request
Accessibility
- Closed Captioning introductions at the cultural performances will be available every night
- WildLanterns social story and video preview will be available during the whole event
- Sensory Items will be available at West, South Guest Services and Zoomazium (when open)
- Assistive Listening Devices for the cultural performances will be available for check-out from South Guest Services
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