Celebrate the Zoo’s Centennial with an unforgettable multi-week evening experience of light, culture, and community starting April 17th
Your Erie Zoo will present the region’s first-ever Chinese Lantern Festival, Glow Wild, produced by Hanart Culture on this Thursday, April 17. Glow Wild will be illuminating the zoo every Thursday through Sunday evening from 6pm to 10pm. The event goes from April 17 to June 15.
Glow Wild will transform the Erie Zoo into a stunning display of unique, hand-crafted and illuminated art, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. Guests will enjoy a memorable evening journey through the zoo, discovering vibrant lanterns that celebrate both nature and tradition.
“Chinese Lantern Festivals are wildly popular at zoos nationwide, as they set an already lively experience against an artistic and delightfully illuminated backdrop,” said Roo Kojancie, CEO and president, Erie Zoo. “Glow Wild will transform the way visitors experience the zoo during its centennial anniversary season and showcase Erie in a whole new light. The breathtaking sculptures, depicting marvelous creatures and intricate landscapes, will light up the zoo grounds, creating a magical evening atmosphere.”
The festival features larger-than-life handcrafted lantern displays inspired by traditional Chinese art. Live cultural performances will complement the displays and immerse guests in a vibrant celebration of artistic traditions.
This year’s Lantern Festival holds special significance as the Erie Zoo celebrates its centennial year. Reflecting on this milestone, Kojancie added, “For 100 years, the Erie Zoo has been a cornerstone of this community. Hosting an event of this caliber not only honors our legacy but also serves as a vital fundraiser to support the Zoo as we plan for the next 100 years – ensuring a bright, innovative future for generations to come.”
The Lantern Festival is anticipated to bring cultural and economic enrichment to the Erie region, drawing visitors from near and far. As a part of the zoo’s efforts to serve as a hub for education and entertainment, this event promises to leave a lasting impression on attendees of all ages.
Tickets to Glow Wild are available online only at eriezoo.org/glowwild.
The mission of the Erie Zoo is to foster appreciation of nature through memorable experiences and meaningful action.
