We are fortunate here in Kentucky to have so many unique attractions and things to do, and also that our state often welcomes one-of-a-kind events to the Bluegrass. In the spring of 2023, the Louisville Zoo is hosting Wild Lights: Around The World, which will show you the zoo in a whole new light (pun intended!). The Wild Lights Festival in Kentucky is magical and larger than life and you’ll want to plan ahead to visit this incredible illuminated trail and attraction.

Please note that some of these photos reflect Wild Lights events from previous years.

Our lovely Louisville Zoo has been celebrating 50 years of family memories and this spring, it's going to welcome one of its biggest events ever.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
Wild Lights: Around the World in Kentucky is happening through May 2023, and it's the must-visit event of the spring!
Don’t miss the thrilling sights of the region’s largest lantern festival with hundreds of lanterns aglow with more than 50,000 LED light bulbs.
Louisville Zoo
The incredible creations will be placed on both land and water, creating a larger than life atmosphere within the zoo.
Prepare for a memorable evening that's a wonderful outing for all ages.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
The trail is handicapped accessible and stroller friendly as it winds through the zoo. The zoo will remain open its normal hours during the day, but keep in mind a separate ticket must be purchased ahead of time for Wild Lights.
This traveling event includes many favorite installations.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
While most of the lanterns are meant to be viewed and not touched, there are some that are interactive. Look for the color-changing swings and whimsical lily pads, among others.
It's highly recommended that you purchase tickets for this event ahead of time, in case specific dates sell out.
Facebook/Louisville Zoo
You can save if you are a zoo member and also by purchasing a family four pack of tickets. If you're planning a longer visit, be sure to purchase both tickets for a daytime zoo visit and the evening event (discounts may be available when you do this).
This is such a unique festival in Kentucky -- don't miss out on the opportunity to wander among these larger-than-life luminaries!
Louisville Zoo/Facebook

Wild Lights: Around the World in Kentucky is an amazing festival in the Bluegrass State. Experience mesmerizing lanterns and an illuminated trail that will show you the Louisville Zoo in a whole new light. Are you hoping to attend this larger than life festival? Let us know in the comments and be sure to tag anyone who would like to join you!

For more information, visit the Wild Lights Festival website.

And for more on the Louisville Zoo, check out why else you should visit this 50-year-old Kentucky attraction.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

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Wild Lights Festival in Kentucky

Sarah M. | April 07, 2023

Is Wild Lights the only festival at the Louisville Zoo?

The Louisville Zoo is a world-class destination in Kentucky that invites guests to come and walk on the wild side all year round. In addition to the Wild Lights Festival, other events at the Louisville Zoo include a holiday light display, Zoofari!, Monarchs and Mimosas, and smaller, family-friendly festivals for holidays such as Halloween and Easter.

What are some other light festivals in Louisville, Kentucky?

There's no town that shines quite as brightly as Louisville, Kentucky. In addition to Wild Lights at the Louisville Zoo, you can also be dazzled by the following light displays in L-Ville:

  • Lights Under Louisville. Every year, the Louisville Mega Cavern goes big for the holidays, with its expansive caves decked to the nines with glorious twinkling lights and displays!
  • The Big Four Bridge. All year round, this bridge is a brightly colored Welcome to Kentucky sign. The Big Four Bridge has an LED lighting system that wraps the iron fretwork in vibrant colors. The lights can be programmed to have a rainbow effect, highlighting the beauty and strength of the bridge structure. At night, the bridge becomes a colorful beacon in our city. Lights operate daily from twilight until 1 a.m. and shine to commemorate holidays (Christmas and Hanukah), Pride Month, and even sporting events!
  • Louisville Jack O' Lantern Spectacular. To celebrate Halloween in Louisville, head to Iroquois Park for the annual Jack O' Lantern Spectacular. The region's most amazing Halloween event! Thousands of artistically-carved pumpkins along an immersive walking trail experience in the lush woods of beautiful Iroquois Park (this park also boasts epic views of dazzling Louisville, KY!)

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Louisville Zoo, 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213, USA