GloWild’s Time Traveler Lights Up Kansas City Zoo This Winter

Published on November 24, 2025

Kansas City’s iconic zoo is transforming into a spectacular world of light and art this winter with the return of GloWild. Kicking off today and running until December 13, 2025, this unique event promises a dazzling adventure through time. GloWild allows visitors to experience mesmerizing light displays and immersive art installations that transport them to various points in history. This year’s theme, Time Traveler, takes guests on a journey through the ages, exploring everything from the charm of 19th-century Paris to futuristic sci-fi landscapes that will ignite the imagination of visitors young and old.

A Journey Through Time: A Stunning Blend of History and Future

In its fourth year, GloWild is offering a fresh and exciting theme at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. The event invites visitors to step into a mesmerizing world where art and light converge. As they stroll along a one-mile-long path, they will encounter giant, handcrafted sculptures illuminated by thousands of lights. The sculptures are designed to highlight significant moments in history, combining elements from different periods to create a fascinating contrast between the past, present, and future.

The journey begins with a trip to 19th-century Paris, where the soft glow of lanterns and intricate designs set the stage for an immersive, nostalgic experience. The ambiance transports guests to the streets of a bygone era, capturing the essence of French elegance and history. The journey continues as visitors travel through the American centennial, featuring vibrant displays that showcase the patriotism and innovation of the late 19th century. The final stop is a sci-fi-inspired world of the future, full of otherworldly designs and light installations that push the boundaries of imagination. This journey through time offers a rich and captivating blend of historical and futuristic themes, making it an unforgettable experience for every guest.

The Art Behind the Spectacle: Masterpieces of Light

What truly sets GloWild apart is its dedication to artistry and craftsmanship. This year’s event is the result of the tireless work of over 150 skilled artisans, who spent months creating intricate, massive sculptures using more than 34 tons of steel and an astonishing 89,000 feet of fabric. The level of detail in each installation is remarkable, with each sculpture designed to capture the essence of the time period it represents. These creations, combined with the cutting-edge use of lighting, transform the zoo into a glowing wonderland after dark.

Visitors will have plenty of opportunities to interact with the artwork, whether by stopping to take photos or simply soaking in the grandeur of the installations. The event has been thoughtfully designed with photo ops in mind, ensuring that guests can capture stunning moments along the illuminated path. From towering lanterns to sparkling sculptures and futuristic light displays, there is no shortage of Instagram-worthy spots. These photo opportunities are perfect for families and friends to create lasting memories in this one-of-a-kind setting.

Special Features: An Ocean of Wonders

This year’s GloWild offers more than just a walk through glowing sculptures. In addition to the light displays, the event features an exciting new addition: exclusive access to the Sobela Ocean Aquarium on Wednesdays. This special feature gives guests the chance to explore marine life up close, adding another layer to the immersive experience. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of the ocean, complete with glowing sea creatures and underwater-themed lanterns that further enhance the magical atmosphere. The inclusion of the ocean aquarium makes GloWild a truly all-encompassing experience that offers something for everyone, from art lovers to nature enthusiasts.

The event also features seasonal-themed lanterns, adding to the holiday spirit and creating a festive atmosphere throughout the zoo. These lanterns come in various shapes and sizes, depicting everything from winter wonderlands to seasonal animals, and they add an extra layer of charm to the overall event. GloWild’s blend of light, art, and nature is designed to captivate visitors and transport them to different worlds—whether that’s through the glow of a Parisian street scene or a futuristic cityscape.

Convenient for Families: Photo Ops, Concessions, and Entertainment

GloWild has been designed with families in mind, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. As visitors walk along the one-way path, they will come across numerous photo opportunities where they can snap pictures with the glowing sculptures. These installations make it easy to capture beautiful family photos in a unique setting, making the event a perfect way to spend quality time together.

In addition to the light displays, there are several concession stands scattered throughout the event, offering snacks and drinks to keep everyone refreshed as they explore. Whether it’s a warm beverage to combat the chill of the winter air or a sweet treat to indulge in, the zoo has plenty of options for visitors to enjoy while taking in the sights. The event also includes entertainment throughout the evening, with live performances, music, and interactive activities designed to keep guests engaged and entertained. This makes GloWild an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and festive night out.

A Must-See Winter Attraction in Kansas City

GloWild: Time Traveler is not just another holiday event; it is an extraordinary adventure that promises to captivate the imagination of everyone who attends. As one of Kansas City’s premier attractions, this event offers a rare opportunity to experience the zoo in a whole new light—literally. The glowing sculptures, vibrant colors, and imaginative themes create a magical atmosphere that is perfect for anyone looking to experience something truly unique this winter.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, GloWild is a must-see winter attraction in Kansas City. The event is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in art, history, and futuristic fantasy, all while enjoying a fun and festive experience with family and friends. With its breathtaking displays, whimsical lanterns, and exciting special features, GloWild promises to leave visitors in awe long after they’ve walked through the last glowing archway. So, if you’re looking for a winter adventure that will light up your holiday season, be sure to visit GloWild: Time Traveler at the Kansas City Zoo. With its captivating art, stunning light displays, and unique experiences, this event is one you won’t want to miss.