All Ages
5:00pm – 9:00pm
Adults: $24
Children (2-14)/Seniors (65-75): $20
Members: 10% discount
Under 2 and over 76: Free
Parking: Free
Please Note:
Do I need to reserve Glowfari tickets?
Yes. A timed ticket reservation is required for Glowfari.
When do Glowfari tickets go on sale?
Glowfari is extended from thru March 4th - tickets on sale now! If you are directed to a Queue It website, that is our digital “line” for purchasing Glowfari tickets.
How far in advance can I purchase or reserve a ticket?
All dates for tickets are available for purchase for the remainder of the Glowfari season.
Do members get in free for Glowfari?
No. Members will receive a 10% discount for Glowfari admission. All members are required to make a timed ticket reservation for the event.
I purchased a daytime admission ticket. Can I use it for Glowfari instead?
No. A separate timed ticket reservation is required for Glowfari.
Can I stay in the Zoo for Glowfari if I’ve reserved a daytime ticket for the same day?
No. Daytime guests will need to leave the Zoo entirely, and a separate timed ticket reservation specifically for Glowfari will be needed to re-enter.
What nights will Glowfari be open?
Glowfari is open thru March 4th! We will be closed Tuesdays (February 7, 14, 21, & 28) and Friday, March 3rd.
What are Glowfari hours?
5:00pm to 9:00pm. Last entry is between 6:30pm and 7:00pm with a timed ticket reservation.
Do I need to wear a mask at Glowfari?
Masks are strongly recommended in all indoor spaces (including indoor exhibits, the gift shop, restaurants, and restrooms) by all individuals ages 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status. We also recommend wearing a mask outdoors when adequate distancing may not be possible. Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a healthy and safe visit for all.
Will Santa be at Glowfari?
Santa will be back next holiday season! Visit Santa in the Rides Area Fridays - Sundays in November and every night December 1-23 from 6:00pm to 9:30pm (line closes at 9:15pm). Please note, Santa's hours are subject to change and he may have to head back to the North Pole if it gets too wet.
Can I buy food & beverage at Glowfari?
Yes. Snacks and beverages (including hot chocolate) are available at The Landing Café, Tuskers Grill, and our snack carts.
What are the hours of the restaurants, snack spots, and gift shop?
Tusker's Grill: 5:00pm to 8:30pm
The Landing Café: 5:30pm to 8:00pm
Savanna's Edge: 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Madagascar Trading Post: 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Gift Shop: 5:00pm to 8:45pm
*Restaurant/Snack Spots/Gift Shop hours are subject to change.
Will the Rides Area be open?
Yes. The Rides Area will be open from 5:00pm to 9:30pm. Make sure to ride the Express Train to Wild Australia. Please note: The last train ticket is sold at 8:45pm. All passengers must be in the train line with tickets by 9:00pm. All hours and availability are weather permitting and subject to change.
Will the Gondola be open for Glowfari?
Yes. The Gondola will be open and festively lit to take you up to see creatures of the coastline at California Trail. The last ride up is at 8:00pm & the last ride down is at 8:30pm.
Is re-entry allowed?
Yes. Re-entry is allowed before 8:00pm with a handstamp.
Will live animals be visible?
No. Oakland Zoo animal residents will be in their indoor areas and not visible to the public.
Can I touch the lanterns?
No. Each sculpture is a hand-painted work of art that we would like to preserve not only for the entirety of the event, but for years to come.
Can I reschedule my tickets to Glowfari?
Glowfari tickets are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
Tickets will only be refunded if Glowfari is closed due to inclement weather or other emergency situations (see Process for Glowfari closure due to inclement weather below).
What happens to my timed ticket reservation due to inclement weather or unhealthy air quality?
If the Zoo must close Glowfari for any reason, an email will be proactively sent to all guests who have purchased tickets and full refunds will be issued.
Can I apply my Glowfari tickets towards the cost of an Oakland Zoo membership?
No. Glowfari tickets are not eligible for an upgrade to a membership.
Someone in my party is sensitive to light, noise, or other stimulation. Can you help us plan ahead?
Yes. Music is played throughout the Zoo, so if someone in your party is sensitive to noise, consider bringing noise-cancelling headphones. Some areas of the Zoo including the Main Entrance and Children's Zoo may be triggering for those who are sensitive to light or are prone to seizures.
Is ZooLights open this year?
No. Glowfari has taken the place of Zoolights. The event features larger light displays, longer hours, and more available dates than Zoolights. It is the new way to make new memories and continue your holiday tradition.
Oakland Zoo
(510) 632-9525
Mail: P.O. Box 5238 Oakland, CA 94605
Visit: 9777 Golf Links Road Oakland, CA 94605
© 2023 Oakland Zoo. All rights reserved.