Oakland Glowfari Lantern Festival
Guests walk through the zoo to view hundreds of illuminated, hand-painted animal lanterns arranged in regional habitat themes such as California forests, the San Francisco Bay, and Florida Everglades. Visitors can ride a festively lit Gondola up to the California Trail, enjoy amusement rides like the train, and meet Santa in the Rides Area. Food, hot chocolate, and other warm beverages are available across multiple cafes and snack stands.
What to Expect
Showcases hundreds of all-new illuminated animal lanterns throughout the zoo.
Event Details
Ages
All Ages
Neighborhood
East Oakland
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Oakland Zoo
Food & Drink
Snacks and beverages, including hot chocolate, are available at event cafés and snack carts; Safari Café and snack carts operate on weekends and holidays only.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and fans of illuminated displays
Vibe
Festive and glowing
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Timed ticket entry is between 4:30pm and 6:30pm; entrances close at 7:30pm; re-entry is allowed until 8:30pm; all guests must exit by 9:00pm.
- Parking: Parking is included with Glowfari admission. All parking areas are used during the event, and guests may be directed to the lower or main entrances depending on arrival time. Saving spaces for additional cars is prohibited; each car’s guests should have their entry tickets. Groups arriving by bus should contact Glowfari tickets to arrange parking.
- Accessibility: Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to rent at the Gift Shop on a first-come, first-served basis, though cart tours are unavailable.
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets as soon as your date goes on sale 28 days out, because plan-ahead pricing saves more the earlier you buy.
- Dress for cold, wet winter weather and bring an umbrella, since Glowfari is outdoors and umbrellas are allowed in the zoo.
- If your group is coming in several cars, make sure everyone in each car has their own ticket, because saving parking spaces isn't allowed.
- Bring noise-cancelling headphones for anyone sensitive to sound, since music plays throughout the zoo during Glowfari.
- Members should use the member ticket link to get 10% off, because full-price tickets can't be adjusted afterward.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa is in the Rides Area Fridays through Sundays from Nov 6 to 15, then every night from Nov 20 to Dec 23, weather permitting.
- New this year: lantern themes for California forests, San Francisco Bay, the Montana plains, the Florida Everglades and Hawaii's rainforests.
- New VIP Experience on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Nov 20 to Jan 3: preferred entry, an indoor lounge with premium food, and a Gondola Express Pass. Capacity is limited.
- Add-ons for ticket holders: pre-purchased drinks, a light-up toy or a Gondola Express Pass.
- Plan-ahead pricing means the earlier you buy, the more you save, and members get 10% off general admission (not the VIP package).
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Will we see the zoo animals during Glowfari?
No. The animals stay in their indoor areas and aren't visible to Glowfari guests.
Where can we get food and hot drinks?
The Landing Café, Tuskers Grill, Safari Café and snack carts sell snacks and drinks, including hot chocolate. Safari Café and the snack carts are open on weekends and holidays only.
Do members need a reservation?
Yes. Every guest, members included, needs a timed ticket reservation. Members get 10% off by using the member ticket link.
Is Glowfari OK for someone sensitive to light or noise?
The event can be photosensitive. The Main Entrance and Children's Zoo may be triggering for anyone prone to seizures or sensitive to light. Music plays throughout the zoo, so noise-cancelling headphones help.
Is the Gondola running?
Yes. It's lit for the season and takes you up to the California Trail, where there are more lanterns.
More Christmas Events Near Oakland
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.