- Peoria Zoo

A CELEBRATION OF CULTURE AND CRAFTSMANSHIP

Thursdays – Saturdays | March 19th – May 16th, 2026
*LAST DAY TO GLOW: Sunday, May 17th
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (last admission at 8:00 PM)

This spring, Glow Wild Lantern Festival returns to Peoria Zoo, transforming the grounds into a dazzling wonderland of light, color, and cultural artistry. Back for another unforgettable season, this year’s festival features an all-new lineup of handcrafted lantern displays, immersive experiences, delicious food and drinks, and live entertainment designed to delight guests of all ages.

Presented by Kaleido Entertainment in collaboration with the Peoria Park District, this spectacular glowing event offers a reimagined luminescent journey filled with traditional Chinese lantern craftsmanship, interactive elements, and breathtaking performances

PURCHASE TICKETS

Ticket Prices

Adult (13 and over):
Thursdays | $20.95
Fridays & Saturdays | $25.15
Child (2-12):
Thursdays | $14.65
Fridays & Saturdays | $15.70
Child (1 and Under): FREE
Family Pass (2 adults & up to 3 kids):
$73.45 all nights

*Prices include online processing fees

WHAT TO EXPECT

ALL-NEW LANTERN DISPLAYS:
Experience a completely refreshed collection of stunning, larger-than-life lantern creations inspired by animals, nature, and fantastical scenes. Each display illuminates the Zoo's pathways with vibrant color and intricate detail.
LIVE ACROBATIC PERFORMANCES:
Enjoy world-class performances from award-winning Chinese acrobats, included with your admission.
INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES:
Discover hands-on elements and family-friendly activities throughout the festival.
FOOD & BEVERAGES:
Savor themed treats and refreshments available for purchase as you explore the glowing trails.
PLEASE NOTE:
Glow Wild is a special nighttime lantern festival experience happening after the Zoo's normal operating hours. Zoo animals will not be on exhibit during event hours.
Guests may arrive earlier in the evening to enjoy food, activities, and sunset views over the African savannah. Then stay as dusk falls and the lanterns come to life. We recommend staying past sunset for the full glow experience!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT*

EVERY SATURDAY | 6:30 - 9:00 PM

MARCH 21 - Backseat Radio
MARCH 28 - Matt Eckberg
APRIL 4 - ZA Funk
APRIL 11 - James Herr Duo
APRIL 18 - Easy Riders
APRIL 25 - Dennis Close
MAY 2 - Goodnight Gracie
MAY 9 - DJ Birds of Paradise
MAY 16 - Black Velvet

*Live entertainment schedule subject to change

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WILL ZOO ANIMALS BE ON EXHIBIT DURING THIS EVENT?
No. Glow Wild takes place in the evening after the Zoo’s regular hours, and most of our animals are settled in for the night by that time. The event focuses on the illuminated lantern displays, entertainment, and special activities throughout the Zoo grounds. If you’d like to see the animals, we recommend visiting during the Zoo’s regular daytime hours.
CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS AT THE DOOR?
We will have a box office on site. However, tickets my be sold out by the time you arrive at the event, so we highly recommend you book your tickets in advance in order to guarantee your spot.
CAN I TRANSFER MY TICKETS TO ANOTHER PERSON?
Yes, you can transfer your tickets to anyone for free. It is as easy as clicking "Transfer Tickets" on your ticket in the Fever App. Please contact Fever if you need additional help. Make sure you include your ticket order number.
CAN I CHANGE THE DATE OF MY TICKET? ARE REFUNDS ALLOWED?
This experience allows date changes up to 5 hours in advance. If you would like to make the change, please contact Fever and include the ticket ID associated with your purchase. You can also check if this option is available by consulting your ticket in the "Tickets" section of the Fever App where, if enabled, the "Change date and/or time" button will appear. Follow the steps indicated in the link to change the date and/or time of the ticket. No refunds are permitted.
DO I NEED TO ARRIVE AT THE START OF MY SCHEDULED SESSION?
It is recommended that you arrive at the time stated on your ticket to help limit wait times for all guests. The last entry is at 8:00 PM every night of the event.