How do I purchase tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online at www.zoo.org/wildlanterns or in person at the zoo.

Can I reschedule my tickets?

If you purchased your tickets on our website, you will be emailed your tickets. A link to reschedule your tickets can be found at the bottom of that email. Subject to availability, you may reschedule your unredeemed ticket(s) to a different date and/or time up to 5 days after your original visit date. Rescheduling is possible only if the price is equal to or higher than the original purchase price. You can reschedule at a lower priced day upon arrival at the zoo. There will be no refunds if the price is lower than the original purchase price.

Will an admission discount be offered for active, retired, and veteran U.S. military and their families, seniors and people with disabilities?

No. Since WildLanterns is a special fundraiser event, an admission discount will not apply outside of the Buy Early and Save discount through September 30, 2024.

Are online tickets purchased for WildLanterns redeemable for any evening?

No, when purchasing a ticket for WildLanterns you will reserve your entry time on a specific date. They will not be redeemable for a different evening.

Do members get a discount?

Members receive a 20% discount off WildLanterns tickets. Members need to be logged in to their account to receive the discount, and then the member discount will be automatically applied in the cart.

Is this the same event as WildLights?

No, WildLanterns is not the same event as WildLights. WildLanterns is a brand-new experience at Woodand Park Zoo where the zoo will be illuminated by large-scale animal and nature scape lanterns.

What if it rains? Are there ticket refunds?

Sorry, WildLanterns is a rain or shine event—there will be no ticket refunds.

Will food be available for purchase?

Yes! Enjoy delicious holiday food offerings at Gather + Graze Café, 1899 Grove, and other select locations. On nights when 1899 Grove is booked for private events, Gather + Graze Café will feature a selection of 1899 Grove favorites, including the Woodland Burger, Black Bean Burger, Chicken Strips, Vegan Nuggets, Fries, Side Salad, and more. Bon appétit!

Can visitors bring their own food to WildLanterns?

Yes, like a daytime visit to the zoo, visitors are permitted to bring their own food to WildLanterns. Outside alcohol is prohibited.

Will guests need to pay for parking?

Yes, the price is $7 for the day (+ taxes and fees) for parking in any of the Woodland Park Zoo parking lots for WildLanterns. This price is available after 3:30 p.m. Member parking discount does not apply to special events.

Will both gates be open for entry to WildLanterns?

Yes, both the South Entrance and the West Entrance will be available for entry to the event. The South Gate will only be open to guests that already have tickets. If you plan on purchasing a ticket when you arrive, please do so at the West Entrance.

West Entrance: 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103
Cross streets: Phinney Ave. N. between N. 55th and N. 56th St.

South Entrance: 750 N. 50th Street, Seattle, WA 98103
Located on N. 50th Street and accessed by the Hippo parking lot. Near the African Savanna exhibit.

Do you have ADA parking close to the entrance?

We do have ADA stalls located close to the West entrance. They tend to fill up, so if you have a member of your group with mobility challenges we recommend coming early to park as close as possible to the entrance.

Will shuttle service be provided from any Park & Rides?

Sorry, we cannot provide shuttling from Park & Ride locations.

If you’re already visiting the zoo, can you remain on grounds for WildLanterns?

Sorry, but WildLanterns is an after-hours ticketed event. The zoo closes at 3:00 p.m. during the winter and visitors will be cleared off the grounds. The West and South Gates will re-open at 4:00 for the event.

Will strollers be permitted at WildLanterns?

Yes, strollers will be allowed along the open pathways for the event.

What happens when a night of WildLanterns is sold out?

When we sell out for a night of WildLanterns, we will not sell any more tickets online or at the zoo. Only those who already have tickets for that night will be permitted to enter.

Do you allow service animals?

Fully trained service animals are allowed on zoo grounds. Woodland Park Zoo is responsible for the health and well-being of all its animals, including many sensitive species. Therefore, there are additional steps to bringing fully trained service animals on grounds. When you arrive, we require that you and your service animal check in at any ticketing window or membership office.

Please review the service animal guidelines here.

How much time should we spend at WildLanterns?

We recommend guests prepare to spend at least two hours on grounds to enjoy WildLanterns. Plan for extra time if you want to enjoy any programs, have a snack, or browse the ZooStore. You can learn more about programs and experiences here.

What time do we have to leave the zoo?

We ask that all visitors head toward the exits at 9:00 p.m. when the event closes.

What if I arrive late?

You are welcome to enter any time after your selected entry time. If you need to reschedule your visit, please do so using the link in your ticket order email.

Are rentals such as strollers and wheelchairs still available?

Mobility equipment including wheelchairs and ECV scooters will be available to rent at the Guest Services locations inside the West Entrance and near the ZooStore at the South Entrance. These items will be thoroughly cleaned between rentals for your safety.

• Wagon $11.00
• Double stroller $10.00
• Wheelchair (non-electric) $10.00*
• Electric mobility scooter or ECV $25.00**

*Recipients of EBT/Washington Quest, WIC assistance, and foster and kinship families can receive a 50% discount on wheelchair rentals. Must present verification such as EBT/Washington Quest card, WIC voucher/card or appointment folder, DCYF caregiver authorization form, or foster caregiver ID card or license certificate.

**Conditions: Must leave $200 refundable deposit and valid driver’s license; 18 years and older, or 16 years with parent/guardian permission; 400-pound weight limit.

Will the carousel be open during WildLanterns?

Yes. The carousel is open each night of WildLanterns from 4:00 – 8:30 p.m.