The Wild Lights Festival Has Returned to Iowa

This spring, you can see animals and other creatures in a way you've never seen them before! The annual Wild Lights Festival has returned to Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines 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 kicked off on April 5th and runs 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 are on sale now! Tickets range from $23 to $25 for non-members, but there is a discount for four-packs and large groups. You can purchase yours online HERE.