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!

 


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 12, 2024, Thursdays through Sundays, and will be open every night December 19 – December 31, 2024. 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 9:00 p.m., and the South store will be open from 4:00 to 8:30 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

SPONSORS

 

BECU Logo

Our Mission

Woodland Park Zoo saves wildlife and inspires everyone to make conservation a priority in their lives.

Land Acknowledgment

Woodland Park Zoo recognizes that these are the lands of the Tribal signatories of the Treaty of Point Elliott. We acknowledge their stewardship of this place continues to this day and that it is our responsibility to join them to restore the relationship with the living world around us.


5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103   |  206.548.2500  |   zooinfo@zoo.org


Association of Zoos & Aquariums
Seattle Parks & Recreation
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