If you haven’t checked out Redding, plan a road trip now! Just a few hours away from the Bay Area (just far enough to feel like you’re going on an adventure) and known for its annual holiday lights festival, Redding has so much to offer for families looking for a short and easy getaway. Now, there’s no need to wait for the next winter for spectacular lights!
Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park will host its first annual Glowing Wild Lantern Festival at Turtle Bay’s McConnell Botanical Gardens, open on select dates from March 29 – May 26, 2024. In honor of 2024 being the Year of the Dragon, the festival will feature ten acres of botanical gardens illuminated with larger-than-life Asian lantern displays inspired by wildlife and plants worldwide. Perfect for all ages, there will be giant illuminated displays, themed music and animation, four Lantern Lounges, glowing swings and bubble machines, food and drinks, and a community stage with live performances on select dates.
We love the Sheraton Redding at Sundial Bridge – it’s super convenient and felt like we were in a resort with everything we’d need a stone’s throw away. Right now, they are offering an overnight package called the Glowing Wild Package, which includes accommodations and two adult tickets. Pro tip: kids aged 0-3 get free admission!
The experience begins with a walk across the world-famous Sundial Bridge across the Sacramento River. A path leads guests to the garden entrance and courtyard, featuring food and beverages for the entire family. 
Guests can explore winding paths through ten acres of artfully illuminated and immersive displays, including a 100-foot-long Dragon Lantern and a 30-foot-tall Buttery Tree featuring giant glowing butterflies. There will be lanterns that pay homage to the many animals native to the region, including turtles, skunks, badgers, bobcats, and porcupines, as well as animals from around the world, such as tigers, pandas, apes, zebras, alligators, snakes and more.
Elevated dining options will include private Lantern Lounges surrounded by the festival’s nearby magical sights and sounds. 
Each Lantern Lounge reservation includes admission for up to eight (8) guests with exclusive access to a reserved private lounge furnished with comfortable seating and décor inspired by the festival, nature, and wildlife. Guests can enjoy two large woodfired pizzas by Mosaic restaurant, unlimited non-alcoholic drink wristbands (alcoholic drinks available for purchase), and two commemorative keepsakes.
Tickets to the Glowing Wild Lantern Festival start at $20 for adults and $25 for children (ages 4-15), veterans, and seniors. Children 0-3 are free. The festival is open Wednesdays through Sundays. Tickets can be purchased here: www.glowingwild.org
