Wild Lanterns at Woodland Park Zoo

Wild Lanterns at the Woodland Park Zoo is one of our favorite holiday activities in the city each year. Instead of normal Christmas lights, these life size lanterns are lit up, moving and changing colors. They are really incredible to see all the different types of plants and animals lit up like this. Here’s what to know before you go.

Woodland Park Zoo
5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103

Wild Lanterns
Wild Lanterns is going on daily through January 31st (except Mondays & Christmas Eve/Christmas Day). Tickets range from $25-35 with children under age 2 FREE. Timed entry tickets are required and range from 4-8:30pm nightly. Advanced reservations are highly recommended since dates/times sell out quickly.
Find out more info & purchase tickets on the website HERE.

Due to King County’s current mandate, Ages 12 and over will be required to show a negative COVID test or vaccine card. All ages are required to wear a mask.
You can read more info on current requirements HERE.

The lanterns surprise me every year. They are always bigger and better than the last. Certain lanterns are animatronic so they move or change colors. Don’t miss the interactive exhibit which allows you to control some of the lanterns with lights, sounds, and smoke effects.

Don’t expect to see animals during your visit. It is dark and most animals are in their habitats sleeping. We did find the bats, komodo dragon, and a few others still awake but that was it. Come visit another day for the animals!

If you get hungry during your visit there are plenty of snack, food, and drink stands to choose from. There are sit down options available as well as festive foods like hot cocoa and a make your own smores bar.