My family has been bundling up and heading to Elmwood Park Zoo to see Wild Lights since it's inaugural year in 2018. At the time, I was expecting our youngest daughter and waddled along the path ways holding my two year old's hand. This year, we were racing to catch up with a very excited 5 and 2 year old and I couldn't help but think how much we've grown. Both my family and the Wild Light's display. Each year, Elmwood finds new and creative ways to improve the show. Adding lights, displays, activities, and even incorporating new habitats into a world of their own. We've always had a great time, but this year truly was the best yet.
If you've been to Elmwood Park Zoo, you've probably spent time in the music garden. Wild Lights has turned it into something new and exciting, even for the grown ups. This year, the instruments are connected to a vibration sensor with a light projecting on a screen. As you play, the lights switch along to your beat. My girls could have stayed all night composing, but were called away by the sound of Elsa's voice singing "Let It Go". If you have a Frozen fan in your house, they really are in for a treat. Elsa and Anna have been upgraded to a full performance area; complete with a larger than life Olaf. They sing all your kid's favorites and are even available for photo-ops! Right in the same area, there is seating and fire pit- you can make a s'more (or as a little boy I overheard call them "fire marshmallows")! There are animal encounters, stations for kids, and of course Santa is on site to visit and take a picture.
 |  |
Perhaps my favorite thing about attending Wild Lights is the relaxed atmosphere. It's not a simple walk through and leave. You get to wander around, look for your favorite animal friends (even if they are sleeping for the evening), adults can grab a beverage at the Brew Pub, and there is always something new to see around every turn. There are activities to do throughout and you can always walk the 16 acre park to take it all in again. With young kids, it's always nice to have that kind of flexibility- we can go and walk through quickly or find a picnic table by a fire and relax, spend time visiting Penny the alligator, and run through the rainbow tunnel one more time. As a mom, I also appreciate the many opportunities for photos. Because you're not walking through a set in and out course and are actually able to meander about, you can get the cutest pictures of your family.
I also appreciate the value for families. There are plenty of holiday light displays to choose from and you want to make the most of your experience. At Wild Lights, you get a lightshow experience, plus entertainment and activities. Kids 2 and under are FREE, regular admission is $14.95 (yearly member rate= $11.95). Which means you can have a full evening of fun for a reasonable price.
We had so much fun and cannot wait to continue our tradition again next year- I wonder what they'll surprise us with then?!
**This is a review of my personal experience. I was compensated for this article, but opinions are my own.
