The Erie Zoo will flip the switch on one of its most popular traditions today as Glow Wild, the zoo’s annual Chinese Lantern Festival, officially opens for the season. The event runs Thursdays through Sundays from April 30th through July 5th, filling the zoo grounds with towering, illuminated sculptures, glowing animal figures, and vibrant cultural displays.
This year’s festival features an expanded collection of handcrafted lanterns created by artisans from Zigong, China, a region known for its centuries‑old lantern‑making tradition. Organizers say the intricate pieces take thousands of hours to design and build, transforming the zoo into a nighttime spectacle of color and light. Guests can explore the displays from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., with the final entry at 9:15 p.m. Each evening also includes two cultural performances at 7:15 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
Glow Wild organizers say the festival offers more than a walk through the zoo — it’s an immersive cultural experience designed to showcase both artistry and tradition. With its mix of illuminated displays, performances, and family‑friendly activities, the event aims to bring a new kind of magic to Erie’s summer nights.
Tickets can be found on the Erie Zoo’s website.