- What are the hours?
Hours for Blank Park Zoo's Wild Lights Festival Presented by MidAmerican Energy Company:
Wednesday - Sunday, April 5 - May 27, 2024
Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024
7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Last admission at 9:30 p.m.
- What can I expect at the festival?
Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company will feature nearly 50 handcrafted, larger-than-life, illuminated Asian lanterns. This year’s festival features animal displays, interactives, Asian mythology, and many, many photo and selfie opportunities. Over eight million people have enjoyed a Tianyu Arts and Culture lights festival in cities around the country. It is an experience of light and culture.
- What are the food and beverage options?
Snacks and drinks will be available in the Gift Shop and GoGo Plaza. Kona Ice will be onsite Thursday - Saturday in May (weather permitting).
- Can I take pictures?
Please take pictures as the Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company is a very visual event and we hope you take many pictures and share your experience on social media by tagging @BlankParkZoo and #WildLightsDSM.
- May I or my children climb on the lanterns?
No. The lanterns are visual artistic pieces and not made to withstand climbing of any kind. For your safety, please do not climb or allow children to climb on the lanterns. Please remember to remain on the designated path during your visit.
- Weather concerns? Does the event close if it rains?
The event is outdoors and is held rain or shine. Please dress appropriately. Insider Tip: Don’t let rain detour your visit. The lanterns reflect off the rainy environment to give a fantastic glow you won’t see on other nights.
- Will I see the 'real' animals of the Zoo?
Sorry, for the safety of the animals, staff and visiting public, the 'real' animals are not available for viewing.
- When is the best time to view the lights?
The best viewing begins at sunset. Total experience time lasts 60-90 minutes. Admission begins at 7:30 p.m., and you may arrive any time until 9:30 p.m.
- Am I able to change/move my tickets to another evening?
We are unable to offer refunds on tickets. The event is held rain or shine. Changes to tickets already purchased are available on a limited basis to a date as capacity allows. Ticket changes must be completed during office hours before the ticket date. Ticket changes are available via phone during regular office hours, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. by calling 515-285-4722. Unused tickets cannot be changed after the original ticket date has passed. Please note that tickets may increase in price during the event and any changes are subject to a price adjustment.
- How do I receive the member rate?
On the checkout screen, click the "I'm a member!" box, and enter the member number and click "Apply." The member rate will automatically adjust.
Make sure your last name, email address and home address are what you used when you purchased the membership. Your member number is located below the barcode on your digital membership card. If you need assistance, please call 515-974-2600.
- I found cheap tickets online from a third party, is this legitimate?
Due to high prevalence of SCAMs on social media networks, Blank Park Zoo does not endorse, encourage, or allow third party ticket sales. The only official place to purchase tickets for the Wild Lights Festival presented by MidAmerican Energy Company is at www.blankparkzoo.com, by phone at 515-285-4722, or at Blank Park Zoo.
