A New Adventure Awaits For 2023
Presented by Acrisure Arena, Home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds

Nightly, March 17- April 30
6:30pm - 10:00pm, last admission 9:00pm

Here we glow again! The wildly popular nighttime event, Glow in the Park, returns to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens this spring with a spectacular new lineup of hand-crafted lantern displays that represent wildlife from around the world— and even under the sea!  

Glow in the Park, presented by Acrisure Arena, Home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds, is a unique event designed to celebrate the awe-inspiring beauty of nature through hundreds of illuminated lanterns. These larger-than-life displays, which feature breathtaking artistry, interactive elements, and a never-ending number of photo-ops, will create a truly unforgettable night for guests of all ages. 

General Admission Tickets

Member Tickets

Member Night Tickets

Glow in the Park Ticket Type	Monday - Thursday	Friday - Sunday
Adult (General Admission)	$27.95	$29.95
Member Adult	$25.95	$27.95
Child 3-12	$17.95	$19.95
Child under 3	FREE	FREE

We recommend purchasing tickets as far in advance as you can, as there is limited capacity and nights will sell out. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (760) 346-5694. 

Planning a daytime visit too?

Check out our NEW combo tickets, which include a ticket to Glow in the Park (event ticket requires date/time selection) plus a single day ticket for regular admission to the Zoo (valid any day, for up to one year).

Combo Tickets

ComboTicket Type	Monday - Thursday	Friday - Sunday
Adult	$55.90	$57.90
Child 3-12	$35.90	$37.90
Child under 3	FREE	FREE

 

Hear from our guests on their glowing experience! 

“Totally blown away!” 

“You should definitely glow with your family!” 

“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!” 

“It was fantastic! The Zoo is lit up with all sorts of spectacular light displays celebrating the animals and cultures... Take a look— it was a dazzling display of lights, super fun and full of inspiration!” 

“It really is a treat! The lanterns aren't the only things lighting up! If you look around, you'll notice that there is a special twinkle in the eyes of everyone around you!” 

We’re so excited to welcome you to Glow in the Park, presented by Acrisure Arena, Home of the Coachella Valley Firebirds! To help you get the most out of your visit, here are some important reminders: 

• Please double-check the time on your Glow in the Park ticket. Entrance can be granted only up to 15 minutes prior to your ticketed time.
• Parking is free in the Zoo's main parking lot, but spaces can fill up quickly. To provide the best possible parking experience for all guests, we ask that you do not enter the parking lot more than 20 minutes before your ticketed time.
  Please plan to carpool and/or use a rideshare service to save time. Overflow parking is available on Portola Avenue, Haystack Avenue, and Buckboard Avenue. (More details on parking can be found in the “Know Before You Go” section below.)
• 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. Starting at 6:30pm, Glow in the Park guests can re-enter at the time designated on their ticket. Last admission is at 9:00pm.
• 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.  
• Running late? Guests will be allowed to enter the event any time after their ticketed time, up until 9:00pm. Please note: the event will end and the park will close promptly at 10:00pm. 
• For the safety of our guests and animals, smoking (including e-cigarettes and vapes) is prohibited everywhere on Zoo grounds. Please do not bring any glass containers or alcohol into the parking lot or into the Zoo. (Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase inside the Zoo.) 
• 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. 

• What to Know Before You Go

  Is Glow in the Park the same as last year? 

  No— the breathtaking wonder and awe-inspiring scale of the event are returning but the lanterns and experience will be are all new!  
  
  
  Can I touch the lanterns? 

  No. Unless specifically designated, the lanterns are meant for viewing purposes only. Please, do not touch, climb, or lean on the lanterns or barriers around them.

  
  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?   

  Parking is free in the Zoo's main parking lot, but spaces can fill up quickly. To provide the best possible parking experience for all guests, we ask that you do not enter the parking lot more than 20 minutes before your ticketed time. Please plan to carpool and/or use a rideshare service to save time. Overflow parking is located in legal parking areas along 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, and be sure to pick up your trash. 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? 

  This year’s Glow in the Park event features new pathways that explore select areas of the zoo, including the African Safari and Rhino Savanna. 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 https://www.livingdesert.org/visit/visitor-information/service-animal-policy/. 

  
  Are gift shops and concessions open? 

  Yes! The gift shop will be open from 6:30pm – 10:15pm 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 anywhere everywhere on Zoo grounds including the entrance and parking lot. 

• Ticket FAQs

  Is Glow in the Park the same as last year? 

  No— the breathtaking wonder and awe-inspiring scale of the event are returning but the lanterns and experience will be 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 at the Admissions window. 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.

  When purchasing a combo ticket, you must select a specific date and time for Glow in the Park. Your daytime ticket can be used any day for regular Zoo admission, within one year of the purchase date.  

  
  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 separate, 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. Click here for more details. [link to Member tickets] Members are also invited to join us before Glow in the Park opens to the public on March 15th and 16th. (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.  

• Accessibility

  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	$6.00 +tax
  Double Stroller	$8.00 +tax
  Wheelchair	$10.00 +tax
  Electric Scooter (ECV)	$25.00 +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. 

    

  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, KultureCity 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, ext. 2134 or email us at GuestServices@LivingDesert.org