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Wild Lights

Presented by Merrill L. Thomas, Inc.

Thank you for a record-setting Wild Lights season! We'll see you on November 28, 2025!

Wander into our enchanting, illuminated, winter wonderland to explore the sights and sounds of Wild Lights, presented by Merrill L. Thomas Inc. Thousands of lights transform our campus into a twinkling, family-friendly experience that is sure to become a holiday tradition for North Country families. Bask in the glow of thousands of lights as you experience Wild Walk after dark. Then, stroll through Forest Music to surround yourself with immersive music and lights—curated specifically for the looped trail.

Wild Lights

Ticket Prices

  • Adult Ticket $12
  • Youth Ticket (5-17) $7
  • Age 4 and Under Free
  • Members $7 Adults | $2 Youth
    • TICKETS
Map of The Wild Center and surrounding area

Directions

45 Museum Drive
Tupper Lake, NY 12986
Get detailed directions

Dates & Times

Wild Lights returns on November 28, 2025

What's New?

Interactive projection art from Echo, colorful photo ops, synchronized light experiences, and cozy amenities like hot cocoa and s'mores by the fire.

Add a little Wild Lights magic to your photos! Try out our brand-new Instagram filter and bring the glow of Wild Lights to your stories. Check it out here!
Projection art from Echo

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reserve my visit? Can I purchase tickets when I arrive?

Reserving tickets is not required, but is highly encouraged as it speeds up the check-in process upon arrival. Tickets can be purchased for specific dates through our online reservation system. Tickets may also be purchased by calling (518) 359-7800.

What are the trails like?

The trails that make up the Wild Lights experience are similar to any walking or hiking trails you might find in the Adirondacks.  Trails are lined with safety lighting, but we recommend flashlights or headlamps in certain sections.  Weather conditions can also be unpredictable. We suggest bringing traction devices or walking sticks just in case.  

What will I experience?

An enchanting, illuminated, winter wonderland! Thousands of lights transform our campus after dark into a twinkling, family-friendly experience outside. Don’t miss Wild Walk, Stickwork, immersive sound experience in Forest Music, lit archways in the parking lot, cozy fire pits and Adirondack chairs on the patio, and warm up inside with hot cocoa while exploring exhibits.

Can I bring my dog?

Although we love pets, we do not allow dogs on our campus during open hours unless they are service dogs.

How accessible are the trails?

Typically, our trails are accessible by wheelchair, stroller, wagon, walker, power scooter, etc. That said, because of the unpredictable weather this time of year, we cannot guarantee that the trails we utilize for Wild Lights will be accessible. They are minimally maintained so large amounts of snowfall and ice may affect how passable they are.

How much walking is involved?

There are two large areas for Wild Lights. The Forest Music trail (multicolor lights and immersive music) is ¼ mile and can be done in 15-20 minutes. Wild Walk and Stickwork are in the same area and are relatively short walks. Add in walking from the parking lot and spending a little time indoors and the total walk is a little under a mile and can take anywhere from 60-90 minutes.

Do you have EV charging stations?

Yes, The Wild Center has two electric vehicle charging stations located near the Wild Walk kiosk. We also have special, conveniently located parking spots for hybrid and electric vehicles.

Songs for an Old Pine Forest

Beginning November 29, Wild Lights features a retrospective compilation from seasons past.  Whatever Penny's Songs for an Old Pine Forest is a musical collection of fond winter memories so many of us have had in our lifetimes: playing outside on snowy days when you were a child, catching up with friends you haven’t seen in ages on a late night, reflecting by the fireside, or peaceful walk at night. Each song is meant to paint a picture of these winter scenes. While everyone’s experiences differ greatly, we can all hang on to memories of these little moments in our lives.

Seasons change, people change, and life goes on. But we cling to those little moments every winter as we wrap up another year. No matter the mood, this collection of ten songs is like the early sun on a clear winter morning: full of radiance.
Credits
Sledding, Eve, Warmth, and Gathering written by Eric Sturr.
Polaris written by Emily Ta
Snowbound written by Tim Segado

All songs mixed by Tim Segado

Violin performed by Sarah Franchino
Cello performed by Susan Meuse
Trombone performed by Ryan Haupt
Trumpet performed by Franklin Hansen
Bass performed by Nate White
Drum Set performed by Chris Bouvier

Thank you to our sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Merrill L. Thomas Inc.

Merrill L. Thomas, Inc. has been the leader in Adirondack real estate and Lake Placid rentals for over 75 years.

Luminosity Sponsors

Adirondack Flag

Adirondack Flag works to ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy an Adirondack Park full of life, beauty, wonder and opportunity.

Adirondack Frontier

Adirondack Frontier helps you plan your exploration of the lakes, parks, breweries, restaurants and more in Franklin County.

Adirondack Health

Adirondack Health offers a full range of medical, surgical, long-term and primary care services to residents and visitors to the Adirondack region.

Schoolhouse Renovations

Schoolhouse Renovations is a family-owned and operated firm located in Tupper Lake. They specialize in residential new construction and renovation projects so whether you need to restore an Old Great Camp or build a new house or boathouse, give them a call and let them help you realize your dream.

Wild Lights is supported by a grant awarded to The Wild Center by New York State's Empire State Development and the I LOVE NY Division of Tourism.

Wild Lights is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
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