Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Glowing Wild taking place?
Glowing Wild will be open on select nights May 1 - June 28, 2026, from 7 - 10pm. The Lantern Festival will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays in May, with the exception of Monday, May 25, 2026. In June, the Festival will be open 7 days a week.
Where is Glowing Wild happening?
Glowing Wild occurs inside the McConnell Botanical Gardens at Turtle Bay Exploration Park, adjacent to the Sundial Bridge and Sacramento River at 844 Sundial Bridge Drive, Redding, California. The main entrance to the Lantern Festival is on the north side of the Sundial Bridge, with parking available in the Sundial Bridge parking lot. Guests with Premium Tickets will enter on the west side of the Gardens at 1155 Arboretum Drive. The McConnell Botanical Gardens are a part of Turtle Bay’s 300-acre campus. Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a private non-profit organization driven by community members and donations. All proceeds from events like Glowing Wild go directly towards the animals, education, and exhibitions at Turtle Bay.
Are the Botanical Gardens accessible during the day?
During Glowing Wild, the Gardens will be open daily from 8am - 4pm, from May 1 - June 28. During this time, guests will be utilizing the east gate by the Sundial Bridge only. The west gate will be closed. Daytime admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children (ages 3 - 15) and seniors. Children two and under and Turtle Bay members are admitted for free.
Same-day paid admission to the Turtle Bay Museum includes entry to the Gardens. Botanical Garden admission may be applied toward Museum admission or a new Turtle Bay Exploration Park membership.
What will Glowing Wild consist of?
Glowing Wild features 10 acres of botanical gardens filled with large illuminated Asian lanterns, music, food & beverages by Mosaic, glowing swings, and other features for all ages. The lantern festival is a curated display specially designed for Redding and Turtle Bay, with themed areas featuring lanterns in the shapes of various plants and animals.
Are pets allowed at Glowing Wild?
From 8am–4pm, leashed dogs are allowed in the Gardens. In the evening, only service animals are permitted.
WHAT IS THE TURTLE EXPRESS?
The Turtle Express is new for Glowing Wild 2026! This trackless train takes you on an exciting journey through illuminated displays and glowing wildlife scenes. It’s a great way for families, couples, and groups looking to experience the event from a different perspective. The train is ADA accessible, and tickets are $10 per rider, available for purchase in person at the event. Train operations are subject to change without notice.
Will there be food and beverages available?
Glowing Wild is your one-stop destination for a mouth-watering culinary experience surrounded by wildlife lanterns! We're excited to offer a diverse range of food and beverage options available for purchase by Mosaic Restaurant inside the event. From the exotic flavors of Asia to the smoky taste of wood-fired pizza, Glowing Wild has something for everyone to enjoy. Indulge in some fresh-popped kettle corn or sip on a boba tea as you explore the gardens. Our specialty cocktails, served in souvenir cups, will surely be a hit with the adults, while beer, wine, soda, and other offerings are also available. Cash and credit cards are accepted throughout the event. Glowing Wild is unable to accept EBT.
Are group tickets available for Glowing Wild?
Yes, groups of 75 or more may purchase tickets at a discount rate. Please email glowingwild@turtlebay.org with group ticket requests with “Group Tickets” in the subject line.
Are there refunds?
All ticket purchases are NON-REFUNDABLE. The lantern festival will take place in the rain and on cold evenings. Please dress with spring weather in mind for your enjoyment. Tickets will only be refunded if Glowing Wild is closed due to inclement weather or other emergency situations.
WHAT IS A FLEX TICKET?
Flex tickets are allowed a one-time reschedule due to weather, illness, or any unforeseen circumstances. Flex tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE. If you have purchased a regular ticket and would like to reschedule, you may purchase a flex ticket upgrade for $5 per ticket, by calling 530-242-3123 or emailing glowingwild@turtlebay.org before your original scheduled date.
What is a Premium Ticket?
Premium Tickets are a convenient “Come when you want, park where you want ticket”. Entrance is at the west gate, at 1155 Arboretum Drive. Tickets come with exclusive parking, untimed entry, and a souvenir bag with goodies. Premium tickets can be purchased with a flex option.
What is a Private Lounge Experience?
A Private Lounge Experience includes admission for up to 8 guests, two large woodfired pizzas, unlimited non-alcoholic beverage wristbands, and a lounge attendant for additional food and drink purchases.
Is smoking or vaping allowed in the park?
No, smoking or vaping is not allowed in the Park or in Glowing WIld. You may step outside the Park to smoke and return by showing your hand stamp.