Looking for a fun nighttime activity in Wichita this fall? Wild Lights at the Sedgwick County Zoo is returning for 2026, bringing beautiful illuminated lantern displays to one of Wichita’s favorite family attractions. And I found a few ways to save on Wild Lights tickets this year!
Wild Lights is a different way to experience the Sedgwick County Zoo. Instead of visiting during the day to see the animals, you’ll explore the Zoo after dark and enjoy colorful, larger-than-life Asian lantern sculptures.
This is a paid event, but Wednesday discount nights and buying tickets online can make it more affordable for families. Here’s what to expect and how to get the best ticket price.
What to Expect at Wild Lights
Wild Lights transforms the Sedgwick County Zoo into an illuminated nighttime experience featuring one-of-a-kind Asian lantern sculptures.
Here are a few things to know before you go:
- Illuminated lantern displays: Explore colorful Asian lantern sculptures throughout the event.
- Evening experience: Wild Lights takes place after the Zoo’s regular daytime hours.
- Family-friendly outing: It’s an opportunity to enjoy the Zoo in a completely different way.
- Outdoor event: Wild Lights generally happens rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
- Optional VIP golf cart tours: Private guided cart experiences are offered separately on Mondays and Tuesdays.
One important thing to know: The Zoo’s animals will not be on display during Wild Lights, and indoor exhibits will be closed. This event is all about the lanterns rather than seeing the animals.
Wild Lights Ticket Deals & Discounts for 2026
You don’t have to pay full price! The Sedgwick County Zoo has several ticket options, and the day you choose makes a difference.
Wednesday Discount Nights — Cheapest Individual Tickets
If your schedule allows, Wednesday is the best night to save on admission.
- Zoo members: $14 per person
- Nonmembers: $16 per person
These Wednesday prices are advertised as the Dillons Discount.
For a family of four without a zoo membership, that’s $64 instead of $76 for regular Thursday–Sunday tickets boughtonline, saving $12.
Save by Purchasing Tickets Online
For Thursday through Sunday visits, purchasing tickets ahead of time saves $2 per person compared with gate prices.
- Zoo members: $17 online instead of $19 at the gate.
- Nonmembers: $19 online instead of $21 at the gate.
For a family of four, that’s an $8 savings just for purchasing tickets online.
Zoo Member Discounts
If you already have a Sedgwick County Zoo membership, make sure you use your member pricing.
Members save $2 per ticket compared with regular nonmember admission on the same day and through the same purchase method.
And remember, regular Zoo membership admission does not include Wild Lights. You’ll still need a separate ticket for this special event.
Group Tickets — $10 Per Person
This is another deal worth knowing about, especially for large organizations, school groups, or community groups.
The Zoo offers $10 Wild Lights tickets for qualifying groups.
- August 1–October 13, 2026: Minimum purchase of 50 tickets.
- After the presale through December 4, 2026: Minimum purchase of 100 tickets.
- Group rates must be arranged through the Zoo’s Events Department.
For information, email groupevents@scz.org.
My Tips for Saving Money at Wild Lights
Here are a few simple ways to keep your visit more affordable:
- Go on Wednesday: It’s the lowest advertised individual ticket price.
- Purchase online: Save $2 per person on Thursday–Sunday admission.
- Use your Zoo membership: Members receive discounted Wild Lights tickets.
- Plan a group outing: The $10 bulk ticket rate could be a good option for qualifying large groups.
- Check the weather: Since the event is outdoors and generally takes place rain or shine, dress comfortably.
- Don’t assume regular Zoo discounts apply: Wild Lights is a separate ticketed event with its own pricing.
Wild Lights 2026 Dates, Hours & Location
Dates: October 16 – December 22, 2026
Days: Wednesday through Sunday
Time: 6–9 p.m.
Location: Sedgwick County Zoo, 5555 W. Zoo Blvd., Wichita, KS
Admission: $14–$21 per person, depending on membership, day, and purchase method.
Children ages 2 and under: FREE
Parking: FREE
Tickets & More Information: Sedgwick County Zoo Wild Lights
Is Wild Lights Worth the Price?
Wild Lights isn’t one of Wichita’s cheapest family events, especially if you’re purchasing several tickets. But if it’s something your family wants to experience, there are ways to make the cost a little easier.
My biggest recommendation is to choose a Wednesday night if you can. That’s the easiest way to save without needing a coupon or purchasing tickets for a large group.
I love helping Wichita families find ways to enjoy local attractions for less, and sometimes that simply means knowing which day to go and where to purchase tickets!
