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March 25

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Glow in the Park

Select Nights, March 16-April 28
Glow in the Park will be closed on Mondays, except March 25 and April 1
6:30pm-10:00pm, last admission is at 9:00pm

Let's GLOW again! Glow in the Park is back and ALL-NEW for its third year!

Mark your calendars for the following special nights.

  • March 15: Member Night
  • March 16: First public night
  • March 21: Glow with Pride (21+ event, no exceptions)
  • April 11: Adult Night (21+ event, no exceptions)
  • April 18: La Familia Night with KUNA-FM
  • April 25: Country Night with The Bull 98.5
Adult (18+) 28.95+
Adult (Member) 26.95+
Child (3-17) 20.95+
Child (Under 3) FREE


Member Tickets
General Admission Tickets

 


On select nights from March 16 - April 28, you are invited to step into the magical and immersive world of Glow in the Park! In this family-friendly adventure, you'll discover hundreds of illuminated lanterns, dozens of larger-than-life displays, and countless photo ops showcasing the wonders of wildlife from across the globe — and throughout time.

Guests of all ages will enjoy this one-of-a-kind nighttime experience with...

  • Mesmerizing, larger-than-life lanterns and stunning displays
  • Dozens of interactive installations and exciting surprises
  • Endless photo ops and selfie spots
  • The chance to explore the Zoo at night and visit iconic animals
  • Glow in the Park exclusive Asian-inspired dishes and specialty themed cocktails and mocktails
  • Live entertainment and more!

And the reviews are GLOWING!

"I never stopped smiling; amazingly beautiful, whimsical, and fun!"

“This is not just for children! If your ‘inner child’ is begging to come out to play, this is the place! There are several interactive areas, and it is ALL great for photos! It's all so intriguing and fascinating!”

“GLOW was spectacular... made me feel like I was in an enchanted wonderland."

"This is a must see, 5 plus stars."

  • Ticket FAQs

    Is Glow in the Park the same as last year? 

    No —  the breathtaking wonder and awe-inspiring scale of the event is returning but the lanterns and experience are all new!  


    Can I stay in the Zoo for Glow in the Park if I have a daytime ticket for the same day?

    No. At 5:00pm, all daytime visitors, including members, guests with Glow in the Park tickets, and those with daytime/Glow in the Park bundle tickets, must completely exit the Zoo. Glow in the Park guests will be allowed to re-enter at the time designated on their ticket.


    My ticket is for ___ time. How long can I stay?

    Your timed Glow in the Park ticket indicates the earliest time you can enter the Zoo. However, once inside the park, you are welcome to stay until the event ends at 10:00pm


    Will there be tickets available day-of?

    You are strongly encouraged to purchase your Glow in the Park tickets in advance, as there is limited capacity and nights will sell out. If tickets are available, they will be sold online. However, there is no guarantee that tickets will be available for your preferred time slot or date. Reserve your tickets online or by calling (760) 346-5694. 


    Can I use my tickets on any night?

    No. Glow in the Park tickets are valid only for the specific date and time you selected when purchasing your ticket.


    What if I am running late?

    Guests will be allowed to enter after their designated time, up until 9:00pm. Please note, the event will end and the park will close at 10:00pm.


    What is the refund policy?

    Glow in the Park tickets are non-refundable. If you pre-purchased tickets, but are unable to attend, consider giving them as gifts to friends or family. Glow in the Park is a rain or shine event.  


    Can I use a regular Zoo admission ticket for Glow in the Park?

    No, Glow in the Park is a separately ticketed event that is held after regular Zoo hours. Daytime admission tickets are not valid at this nighttime event. Members receive a special discount on Glow in the Park tickets. These tickets can be purchased here

    Daytime guests must exit the Zoo at 5:00pm and can re-enter at the time designated on their Glow in the Park ticket.


    Why are there timed entry tickets?

    Timed entry tickets help us create a better experience for all guests by allowing us to manage capacity in the parking lot and inside the Zoo.

     
    I purchased my tickets online, but haven’t received the tickets or confirmation?

    Once you complete your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email from "eGalaxy Store" <estore@livingdesert.org>, and your ticket order will be attached as a PDF. Please be sure to check your SPAM or Junk email folders.

    If you are unable to locate the tickets, please contact the Guest Experience Center for additional assistance at (760) 346-5694. 


    Do The Living Desert’s members receive special pricing?

    Yes, members receive an exclusive discount on Glow in the Park tickets. Members are also invited to join us before Glow in the Park opens to the public on March 15. (additional ticket required.)

    Please note, we reserve the right to check member cards and photo IDs at the gate.      


    Are there tours available during Glow in the Park?

    Glow in the Park is a self-guided experience. Group and private tours are not available during this event.  

  • What to Know Before You Glow

    Is Glow in the Park the same as last year? No —  the breathtaking wonder and awe-inspiring scale of the event is returning but the lanterns and experience will be all new!  


    When can I enter the event? 

    Your timed Glow in the Park ticket indicates the earliest time you can enter the Zoo. Please do not enter the parking lot more than 15 minutes before your designated time. 

    All daytime visitors must completely exit the Zoo by 5:00pm, this includes members, guests with Glow in the Park tickets, and guests with bundle daytime/Glow in the Park tickets. Beginning at 6:30pm, Glow in the Park guests will be allowed to enter at the time designated on their ticket.

     

    Where should I park?   

    We are excited to share that The Living Desert’s parking lot has recently been expanded! However, we still encourage you to allow additional time for parking and to carpool, when possible. As always, parking is free in the Zoo's main parking lot.

    Overflow parking is located on Portola Avenue, Haystack Avenue, and Buckboard Avenue. Please be courteous when parking on neighborhood streets; do not block driveways, park in red/No Parking zones, or block in other cars. Please be mindful of barricades and signage that is put into place to create a smooth parking experience for our guests. Also, please be expeditious when dropping off friends and family near the front gate so as not to impede the flow of traffic.

    If you have an oversized vehicle, please use our designated RV/bus parking spots, located in the Northwest side of the Zoo parking lot.
      

    When is the best time to view the lanterns? 

    The lanterns are beautiful before and after sunset! Whichever you choose, you'll walk away with wonderfully wild memories and photos! 

     

    Can you see animals during Glow in the Park? 

    Although the light displays are the main feature of the event, you may spot some animals on your journey.  

     
    Can I bring a pet to Glow in the Park? 

    Pets of any kind are prohibited in the park and are not permitted to be left alone in vehicles for any amount of time. Working service dogs that perform tasks for their owners are permitted. Click here to review our Service Animal Policy. 


    Are gift shops and concessions open? 

    Yes! The gift shop will be open each night during Glow in the Park. 

    There will also be a selection of delicious food and signature drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) available for purchase at several locations throughout the park. Menu and locations to be announced. 
     

    Is smoking permitted? 

    No. For the safety of our guests and animals, smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) is prohibited everywhere on Zoo grounds including the entrance and parking lot. 

  • Accessibility

    The Living Desert is hosting a special edition of Glow in the Park on Sunday, April 14, designed to be mindful of the sensory-supportive needs of our neurodivergent community. Come enjoy an immersive experience and glowing magic at this nighttime lantern festival, featuring the addition of some sensory-inclusive modifications throughout the Zoo, such as…

    • Reduced music levels throughout the event

    • Resilience rooms provided for sensory recuperation.

    • Complimentary sensory bags with items to make your visit more comfortable such as fidget tools and noise-canceling headphones. (Available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis)


    Are strollers and wheelchairs available for to rent? 
    Yes, The Living Desert rents strollers, wheelchairs, and ECV (Electric Convenience Vehicles). Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

    Vehicle Type Price
    Single Stroller $8.00 +tax
    Double Stroller $10.00 +tax
    Wheelchair $15.00 +tax
    Electric Scooter (ECV) $30.00 +tax

     

    Is the route wheelchair accessible? 

    The Zoo offers wide, paved pathways throughout the park, making exploring accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. 

    Please keep in mind that there may be heavy crowds during the event. 

    Click here to view the Glow in the Park map.
     

    Is Glow in the Park sensory-friendly? 

    Glow in the Park has amplified music and some displays feature flashing lights, bubbles, mist, or smoke. For guests with sensory needs, sensory bags are available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last, at the Guest Services office, located just inside the Zoo’s entrance.

    If you have specific needs or questions, please call Guest Services at the Zoo at (760) 346-5694 or email us at GuestServices@LivingDesert.org 

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