Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
Glow Wild returns to the Birmingham Zoo Nov. 22–Jan. 4—everything you need to know
Reading time: 3 minutes
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The Birmingham Zoo is one of the city’s favorite places to make memories year-round—especially during the holidays.
This season, the Zoo’s beloved tradition, Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration, returns November 22–January 4, transforming the grounds with more than a million twinkling lights, hundreds of handcrafted lanterns and plenty of holiday magic for all ages.
Read on for everything you need to know.
The magic begins with the largest lantern in Glow Wild history
A team from Hanart Culture—the international artists behind Glow Wild’s stunning displays—has installed a showstopping new entrance piece that’s breaking records.
Standing 35 feet high and 44 feet wide, this glowing masterpiece welcomes guests into a world of color, light and wonder.
From there, visitors can stroll through a mile-long outdoor trail of vibrant lanterns depicting animals from land and sea—majestic elephants, soaring eagles and deep-sea creatures all brought to life in dazzling color.
Glow Wild highlights
Glow Wild is more than just a walk through the lights—it’s a full evening of entertainment and adventure.
Here’s what to expect this year:
- Lantern Trails–Wander through a mile of handcrafted lanterns showcasing the beauty and diversity of nature.
- Seasonal Treats–Warm up with festive snacks like s’mores, churros and hot cocoa (spiked for guests 21+).
- Holiday Village–The Children’s Zoo transforms into a cozy Holiday Village complete with carolers, photo ops and Santa visits.
- Magical Rides–Hop aboard the Red Diamond Express Train for a sparkling ride through the Zoo.
- Wild Explorer VR–Experience “Elf Power, Inc.,” a limited-time holiday virtual reality adventure.
Special nights to celebrate
Mark your calendars—Glow Wild has themed nights that make each visit unique:
- Friday, November 21 – Zoo Member Preview Night
- Saturday, November 22 – Opening Night Celebration
- Sunday, November 23 – Coca-Cola Caravan Night
- Thursday, December 4 – Adult Night at Glow Wild (ages 18+ only)
Plan your visit
Glow Wild will shine Wednesdays through Sundays from 5PM–9PM, with the last ticket sold at 8PM.
- Where: The Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
- When: Wednesdays-Sundays, Nov. 22-Jan. 4, 2026 | 5-9PM
- Cost: Adults $13.95-$23.95 | Children 2+ $10.95-$14.95 | Children under 2 FREE
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
- Tickets
Whether you’re wandering through glowing trails, sipping cocoa under the lights or watching acrobats soar through the night sky, Glow Wild is the perfect way to make holiday memories with family and friends.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Birmingham’s brightest winter tradition—November 22 through January 4 at the Birmingham Zoo.
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