The Wild Lights Festival Returns to Iowa This Spring

Starting in April, you can see animals and other creatures in a way you've never seen them before! Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines has announced the return of their annual Wild Lights Festival for 2025.

According to the zoo's website, the Wild Lights Festival is presented by MidAmerican Energy and features almost 50 "handcrafted, larger-than-life, illuminated Asian lanterns." This year, guests can enjoy "animal displays, interactives, Asian mythical creatures, and many, many photo and selfie opportunities."

The Wild Lights Festival will debut on April 5th and run Wednesday through Sunday nights until May 25th. The final day of the festival will be Memorial Day on May 26th. Festival hours are 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., with the last admission each night at 9:30. Blank Park Zoo recommends giving yourself 60 to 90 minutes for the "best viewing experience."

It's important to note that you won't be able to see any of the live zoo animals at the Wild Lights Festival. The animals will only be visible during regular zoo hours during the day, which requires a separate ticket. Concessions will be available for purchase each night in the Gift Shop and GoGo Plaza, with the addition of wine and beer on Fridays and Saturdays. The festival is held rain or shine, so the zoo will not offer refunds on advance ticket purchases. You can read more on the FAQ section of the Blank Park Zoo website HERE.

Tickets for the 2025 Wild Lights Festival will go on sale soon! Tickets range from $23 to $25 for non-members, but there is a discount for four-packs and large groups. Follow Blank Park Zoo's Facebook page for the latest information on ticket sales HERE.