Brookfield Zoo Chicago will light up the spring nights with Glow Wild: A Lantern Festival of Hope, debuting March 19.
Glow Wild at Brookfield Zoo is an evening lantern festival featuring more than 70 larger-than-life illuminated animal displays. Guests can wander through the zoo after dark, enjoying cultural performances, interactive experiences, and stories highlighting wildlife conservation. The event combines art, global culture and education to create an immersive, family-friendly experience.
“Glow Wild blends wonder, global culture and conservation storytelling. You’ll be able to learn a lot about the animals reflected in the lanterns, which truly uplifts our mission to connect people with wildlife and nature,” Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Public Relations Director Julianne Olivo said.
Olivo explained that as guests walk through the festival, educational signage will provide information about the displays. On select nights, the “Hub of Hope” will feature performances from community partners and global-inspired cuisine will be available, offering visitors a taste of different cultures as part of the experience.
“We hope that Glow Wild creates a powerful and emotional connection between our guests and the animals they see, as well as with nature, connecting them in a way that’s different from their usual visits to the zoo,” Olivo said.
Glow Wild complements the zoo’s full 2026 calendar, which features returning favorites such as Bunny Brunch in April, the Roaring Nights concerts, the Zoo Uncorked series, the Reindeer Run, and Holiday Magic. Holiday Magic will mark a major milestone this year, celebrating its 45th anniversary.
“Glow Wild is a brand-new nighttime event and it will be the first time in our area that anything like this has been offered,” Olivo said.
The event will run through May 10, offering guests the opportunity to learn about the animals represented in the lanterns.
Tickets for Glow Wild are now available at brookfieldzoo.org/glow-wild, with prices starting at $9.95 for children and $19.95 for adults. This outdoor, evening-only event includes access to all festival experiences, unlimited rides on the Carousel and Ferris Wheel, and complimentary North Gate parking. Zoo members receive discounted admission, making Glow Wild an added perk of membership.