Let's Make Erie Glow Wild!
Experience something truly unforgettable in the Erie region! For nine weeks, the Erie Zoo will come alive with light and wonder during Glow Wild: Chinese Lantern Festival. From April 17th to June 15th, join us every Thursday through Sunday to marvel at stunning, handcrafted lanterns inspired by your favorite zoo animals.
This is the first event of its kind in the Erie region, offering a magical night of culture, creativity, and awe-inspiring artistry.
Bring your family, friends, or someone special to see the Erie Zoo in a whole new light. Glow Wild is more than an event—it's an extraordinary evening of beauty and wonder that will leave you glowing inside and out.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience!
Ticket Information
Early Bird Pricing: Monday, March 17 through Monday, March 31
Member Infant: FREE
Member Child: $15
Member Adult: $18
Non-Member Infant: Free
Non-Member Child: $16
Non-Member Adult: $20
Group Rate: (15 people or more): $17 *must call office to order*
General Pricing:Tuesday, April 1 through Sunday, June 15
Member Infant: FREE
Member Child: $17
Member Adult: $20
Non-Member Infant: Free
Non-Member Child: $18
Non-Member Adult: $22
Group Rate: (15 people or more): $17 *must call office to order*
Host your birthday at Glow Wild!
Glow Wild: Chinese Lantern Festival Birthday Parties include:
- Admission for 15 people to the Festival after your party.
- 2 hours to use our party room
- Animal presentation with two animal ambassadors
- Treat bag for each child with 3 items in each bag
- Plates, napkins, silverware
and tablecloths - One carousel ride for guests
- Pizza:
- 5 included: 2 pepperoni and 3 cheese (8 slices each)
- Outside food, including
pizza may be brought into the zoo.
- Beverages are provided (fountain drinks including: Root Beer, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Lemonade, and Hi-C).
Special gift from the zoo for the birthday child
Traveling to Erie for Glow Wild? Check out our partnering hotels Glow Wild Overnight Stay bundles!
Holiday Inn Erie (2260 Downs Dr, Erie, PA 16509): Link coming soon
Bayfront Sheraton (55 W Bay Rd, Erie, PA 16507)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chinese Lantern Festival?
A Chinese Lantern Festival is an awe-inspiring cultural and immersive art installation of hand-crafted lanterns that look like some of your favorite zoo animals.
"The art of making Chinese lanterns is a tradition that goes back many centuries. The lanterns that visitors will see aren't the ordinary lanterns sold in stores, it takes nearly 30,000 hours to design the shapes and they are all made by hand by masters from Zigong, China. We are happy to share the beauty of not only the lanterns, but the Chinese culture," said George Zhao, president of Hanart Culture
When does Glow Wild take place at the Erie Zoo?
Glow Wild runs every Thursday through Sunday starting April 17th through June 15th from 6pm to 10pm.
When is the last time I can enter the festival?
The final entry time for Glow Wild is at 9:00 PM. Make sure to arrive on time so you can fully enjoy the event before we close at 10:00 PM!
When does the festival take place at the Erie Zoo?
Glow Wild lights up the Erie Zoo every Thursday through Sunday from April 17th to June 15th, running from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM each night.
Do I need to purchase tickets in advance, or can I buy them at the gate?
Tickets for Glow Wild are only available online and must be purchased in advance. You can get yours at our ticketing site—don't wait too long, as some nights may sell out!
How much are tickets, and are there any discounts for children, seniors, or members?
Yes! We offer a special early bird discount if you purchase tickets between March 17th and March 31st:
- Members
- Infants: FREE
- Children: $15
- Adults: $18
- Non-Members
- Infants: FREE
- Children: $16
- Adults: $20
Starting April 1st through June 15th, ticket prices will increase by $2 per ticket (infants remain free).
What does my ticket include?
Your Glow Wild ticket grants you access to the zoo, where you can wander among breathtaking lantern displays and enjoy a cultural performance during your visit!
What if it rains?
Glow Wild is a rain-or-shine event, so be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds or date exchanges due to weather conditions.
Can I leave and re-enter?
We're sorry, but re-entry is not allowed once you have exited the event.
How long can I stay at the festival?
You are welcome to stay as long as you like once you enter, up until the event closes at 10:00 PM sharp!
Will the carousel and train be running?
Yes! But keep in mind that the last rides for the carousel and train will be at 9:15 PM. If you choose the 9:00 PM entry time, we recommend heading straight to the train or carousel before exploring the rest of the event!
Can I purchase tickets at the gate?
No, all tickets must be purchased online in advance. Make sure to secure yours early at our ticketing site!
I am a zoo member—can I attend for free?
Glow Wild is a separately ticketed event, so all attendees will need a ticket. However, we love our members and offer special discounted rates just for you!
Will I see animals during Glow Wild?
Most of our animals will be in their night habitats for their safety and comfort, so they won't be visible outdoors. However, our indoor exhibits will remain open, giving you the chance to see some of our amazing animals up close!
Are pets allowed at the event?
Only service animals are permitted on zoo grounds. We kindly ask that you leave pets at home.
If I can't attend, can I get a refund or exchange my ticket for another day?
Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable and must be used on the specific date purchased. We recommend double-checking your plans before booking!