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Glow Wild: A Lantern Festival of Hope at Brookfield Zoo

March 26, 2026

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is officially glowing after last night’s grand opening of Glow Wild: A Lantern Festival of Hope! The dazzling displays blend wildlife conservation with vibrant cultures and traditions for the first festival of its kind in the Chicagoland area. Below are some of the highlights of the event:

Guests explored larger-than-life lanterns inspired by wildlife, nature and mythological creatures—including meerkats, elephants, jellyfish, lions and more.


Elephant lanterns with giraffes in back

3 flamingo lanterns

Chicago Chinese Cultural Center performed the traditional Chinese lion dance, an ancient tradition displaying expressive artistry and athleticism to mimic a lion’s movement.

The Ferris Wheel took its first spin of the season. Glow Wild tickets include unlimited rides on the Ferris Wheel and the Carousel!

At the Hub of Hope, guests enjoyed globally-inspired cuisine and tossed a Chinese coin into the Wildlife Wishes—an illuminated wishing well to send hopes for wildlife around the world.

Glow Wild’s opening weekend continues this weekend from 6-10 p.m. and continues until May 10 on Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets and details are available at brookfieldzoo.org/events.

Images provided by Brookfield Zoo Chicago


gorilla and palm tree

jellyfish colony at  bottom of sea