Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Glowing Wild taking place?
Glowing Wild will be open on selected nights starting April 4 - June 8, 2025 from 7pm - 10pm. The Lantern Festival will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, except for Monday, April 14, and Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
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?
The McConnell Botanical Gardens is privately owned and funded through donations. Access to the Gardens is included with Turtle Bay membership. A suggested fee of $5 and a donation box is posted at each entrance for those without a Turtle Bay membership. The Gardens will be open daily from dawn to 4pm. Each day at 4pm, a staff member will go through the Gardens to clear guests of the area and close the gates.
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?
Pets are not allowed inside Glowing Wild. Only service dogs are permitted.
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.
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.