WildLanterns

presented by Western Washington Toyota Dealers

November 14, 2025 – January 18, 2026

4:00 – 9:00 p.m.
(Last entry at 8:30 p.m.)

ILLUMINATE YOUR HOLIDAYS

WildLanterns presented by Western Washington Toyota Dealers returns to Woodland Park Zoo this November with all-new, larger-than-ever lantern displays. Experience an immersive adventure that promises a magical holiday moment for all!

For more information about accommodations and safety protocols, see the WildLanterns FAQ.

BUY TICKETS

Get your tickets now!

Step Into a Luminous Winter Wonderland!

Be inspired by the magic of the holiday season as you stroll along the Wonderland Trail past woodland creatures from the Pacific Northwest and marvel at our majestic Mount Rainier. See a spectacular world of reptiles and fish while wandering through our Meandering Mangrove. Take a moment to stop and smell the flowers as you journey Beneath the Blossoms of amazing botanical blooms. Then, step into the future at the Forest Trailhead—a luminous celebration of the incredible animals coming to Woodland Park Zoo’s new exhibit opening in 2026. Get an illuminated sneak peek at some of the forest ambassadors—like red pandas and tree kangaroos—that will soon call our zoo their home. And make sure to stop by the Interactive Zone—a space where imaginations of all ages can run wild!

Closure Dates

November 17 – 20
November 24
November 27 (Thanksgiving)
December 1
December 8
December 15
December 24 and 25 (Christmas)
January 5 – 7
January 12 – 14

Night Owls

An Illuminated Evening for Adults Only (21+)*

Visit Night Owls adults-only evenings under the lights: November 22, 2025, December 12, 2025, January 2, 2026.

WildLanterns’ exclusive 21+ night! Sip on holiday-inspired cocktails, explore mesmerizing lantern displays, and discover holiday-themed bars throughout the zoo where you can cozy up by the fire, enjoy tasty treats, have a caricature artist capture the moment—and take as many carousel rides as you like—all in a kid-free environment! Must be 21+ with valid ID.

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!

Buy Early and Save now through October 26th on your Snow Globe experience!

Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, family, or a special date, take your WildLanterns experience to the next level by reserving a private Snow Globe! These cozy globes are returning to WildLanterns this season. Snow Globes available select dates of WildLanterns.

Learn more

Theme Nights

Learn more about exciting theme nights at WildLanterns

The Frosted Glass

The Frosted Glass is the perfect spot to chill, enjoy a snack, and sip on one of our festive holiday cocktails. This all-ages space will be open every WildLanterns night in November and December, and Thursday through Sunday nights in January.

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 December 2, 2025, and January 8, 2026, 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 low-sensory space featuring dim lighting and the gentle sounds of owls and wind in the background. Families and guests will find several themed activities like neon coloring and rotating activities 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 acrobatic 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 acrobatic performances will be available for check-out from South Guest Services
Mobility device rentals available at West and South Guest Services
Access providers like ASL interpretation or Sighted guides available upon advanced notice.