Huge Kansas City lantern festival reopens soon with new look: When and how to go
The GloWild lantern festival, a family-friendly event spanning the Halloween and Christmas seasons, will have a new theme when it returns to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium for its third year starting Friday, Sept. 6.
GloWild: Legends & Lore is a nighttime festival featuring a 1-mile walking route decorated with intricate lanterns. In previous years, GloWild mostly featured animal-themed lights. But the new theme adds a fantastical twist.
There will be two loops: an adventure loop including Atlantis and dinosaurs and a fantasy loop including an enchanted forest and a fairy garden.
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
What will GloWild include?
The one-way path will offer concessions and entertainment as well as the lanterns — some seasonally themed — crafted by 151 artisans using more than 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric. The route takes about 90 minutes to walk.
When are its hours?
Hours will be 6-9 p.m. weekdays and 6-10 p.m. weekends from Sept. 6 through Oct. 31, 5-9 p.m. weekdays and 5-10 p.m. weekends from Nov. 1 through Dec. 29. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Sept. 13; Oct. 12 is open only to ticket holders for Brew at the Zoo.
Where is the location?
The Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is at 6800 Zoo Drive in Swope Park.
How much are tickets?
The event requires a separate ticket from daily zoo admission. Regular admission will be $22-$24, with a $2 discount for Friends of the Zoo members. Also, unlimited admission $36-$38, four tickets for $85 and GloWild-Zoo combo tickets for $27-$39.
Where can I park?
Free parking will be available in the lots near the zoo’s front entrance.
Can I see the animals during GloWild?
Zoo animals will not be available for viewing because the event takes place after most animals have bedded down for the evening, However, the Sobela Ocean Aquarium will be open Wednesday evenings beginning Sept. 18.
Other things to know
▪ GloWild is a cashless event, so you will need debit or credit cards for concessions and merchandise.
▪ Regular zoo accessibility amenities will be available to rent, including electric scooters, strollers, wheelchairs and wagons.
Where can I get more information?
