Families across the Midlands are in for a spectacular treat this festive season as Twycross Zoo launches its enchanting Lanterns of the Wild event. This immersive experience transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland, featuring a breathtaking mile-long trail of intricate lanterns that captivates visitors of all ages.
A Glowing Storybook Come to Life
One recent visitor, Emma Walker, took her two daughters and their friends to the event, describing the experience as "like stepping into a glowing storybook." From the moment they entered, the children were filled with excitement, eagerly running ahead to discover which giant lantern animal would appear next. The event, which launched on 16th November 2025, is perfectly timed to kick off the Christmas season.
The zoo's central location makes it an ideal destination, being just 34 minutes from Birmingham, 35 from Derby, and 45 from Nottingham. This accessibility makes it a prime choice for Midlanders seeking a unique and magical evening out.
An Evening of Laughter, Light, and Marshmallows
The entertainment extends far beyond the stunning visual displays. Families can enjoy live performances, including a particularly popular elf show that had children howling with laughter with its loud, goofy, and chaotic fun. The lanterns themselves are the true stars of the show, ranging from delicately crafted pieces with tiny patterns and soft light to enormous, storybook-style creatures.
One of the highlights for many young visitors is the thrilling moment they spot The Gruffalo glowing mysteriously amongst the trees. The trail is cleverly designed to transport guests through different worlds, moving seamlessly from a jungle environment to the Arctic, and then into an oceanic zone, each area filled with colourful surprises.
Creating Cosy Winter Memories
While the queue to see Santa was noted as being very long, families found alternative ways to create perfect festive memories. The fire pits for toasting marshmallows proved to be a brilliant alternative, offering a chance for families to warm their hands, debate the perfect level of toast, and enjoy a sticky, sweet treat while surrounded by the shimmering lights.
With hot chocolates in hand, visitors can wander the rest of the cosy and colourful trail at their own pace. The ultimate success of any family outing is when children go home "tired and happy," a goal this event seems perfectly designed to achieve. Tickets for the Lanterns of the Wild can be booked online, with the option to add on daytime zoo entry and Santa visits separately.
