Glowfari: A Wildly Illuminating Lantern Festival at Oakland Zoo
Through Jan 31Nov 6 – Jan 31 · 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM · Nov 6, 2026 – Jan 31, 2027; open Wednesday–Sunday 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM (last entry 6:30 PM). Closed Thanksgiving (Nov 26) and Christmas Eve/Day (Dec 24–25).
Oakland Zoo9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605 · 14.9 mi approx. from San FranciscoDirections
All ages (free for toddlers under 2; paved stroller-friendly paths and ADA gondola)
From $24Adults $28; Children (2–14) $24; Children under 2 free. Plan-ahead pricing; advance tickets required
About this adventure
The Oakland Zoo transforms each winter into an enchanting nighttime safari illuminated by hundreds of towering, handcrafted silk animal lanterns. Families stroll through glowing wildlife zones featuring towering elephants, shimmering undersea reefs, life-sized dinosaurs, and California wildlife. The illuminated gondola ride carries guests high above the glowing park to the California Trail. Paved walkways offer smooth stroller access throughout the zoo. Young children can visit Santa in his holiday workshop, ride the illuminated holiday carousel, and sip warm hot cocoa beside warming fire stations. Timed entry tickets should be booked online in advance; children under 2 are free.
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