Atlanta, GA, January 22, 2026
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta is set to enchant visitors with ‘WildWoods: AGLOW,’ an immersive outdoor event transforming its woodlands into a luminous spectacle. Running from November 14 through February 28, guests can explore interactive installations that highlight the beauty of nature after dark. The event emphasizes community engagement and environmental responsibility while offering educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike, creating a vibrant cultural experience.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta Lights Up: WildWoods: AGLOW Returns to Fernbank
Experience an innovative blend of nature and light as Fernbank Museum presents its signature outdoor event, providing unique community engagement and cultural enrichment for all. This beloved Atlanta tradition showcases how thoughtful private initiatives can foster civic vibrancy.
Atlanta’s vibrant community scene is continually energized by institutions demonstrating creativity and a commitment to local enrichment. The Fernbank Museum of Natural History stands as a prime example, consistently offering programs that not only educate but also inspire a deeper connection with the natural world. Their highly anticipated “WildWoods: AGLOW” experience is a testament to the power of personal initiative and private investment in crafting memorable civic events, drawing residents and visitors alike to engage with the wonders of our environment in an entirely new light. Such endeavors highlight how local organizations, through their vision and dedication, contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of a thriving metropolis like Atlanta, GA.
The success of events like “WildWoods: AGLOW” often stems from a streamlined approach to project development and execution. By focusing on innovative design and direct partnerships, the Fernbank Museum effectively transforms its natural spaces into accessible educational and entertainment venues. This model underscores the benefits of strong local leadership and strategic collaboration, minimizing bureaucratic hurdles and maximizing creative potential to deliver exceptional experiences for the community. It represents a proactive effort to leverage unique local assets for broad public benefit, cultivating an environment where individual achievement and community growth go hand-in-hand.
A Glimmering Gateway to Nature’s Wonders
From November 14, 2025, through February 28, 2026, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History invites the public to immerse themselves in “WildWoods: AGLOW.” This captivating outdoor event transforms the museum’s ten-acre WildWoods into a luminous spectacle on select nights. Located directly behind the main museum building at 767 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, this experience offers a distinct opportunity to explore nature after dark.
The event typically runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on its designated evenings, providing a perfect after-hours activity. It has become a significant fixture in the calendar of Atlanta GA events, drawing attention to both the museum’s extensive natural habitats and its dedication to innovative public programming.
Immersive Artistry and Natural Discovery
“WildWoods: AGLOW” is conceived as a multi-sensory, after-hours experience designed for all generations. The exhibition is a harmonious blend of dramatic artistry and original music compositions, crafting a nighttime wonderland that truly immerses visitors. The design focuses on a dynamic exploration of nature, with each glowing adventure specifically curated to highlight the living flora and fauna within the WildWoods.
Guests can anticipate encountering a variety of enchanting installations. Highlights include an interactive tulip poplar pod, captivating projections of nocturnal wildlife, and displays of glowing native plant species. The trails also feature larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms, luminous dandelions, fluttering dragonflies, swarming bats, and glowing garden towers. Projections are ingeniously designed to snake through the forest floor, climb up trees, and illuminate the canopy above, creating an ethereal environment. Some elements even incorporate responsive programming, where lights brighten and soundscapes deepen as visitors approach, enhancing the sense of personal interaction with the natural art. This initiative underscores a commitment to both artistic innovation and the educational mission of connecting individuals with the intricate stories of nature.
Beyond the Outdoor Trails: Indoor Exploration
Admission to “WildWoods: AGLOW” extends beyond the illuminated forest, granting guests after-hours access to the Fernbank Museum’s indoor exhibits. This allows for an expanded evening of discovery, where visitors can explore a range of scientific and cultural displays. Engaging exhibits such as “Fantastic Forces” offer opportunities to defy gravity, while “NatureQuest” provides an indoor treehouse escape. “Reflections of Culture” showcases global expressions, and “A Walk Through Time in Georgia” transports guests through prehistoric environments across the state. The chance to walk beneath some of the world’s largest dinosaurs in “Giants of the Mesozoic” further enriches the experience. Additionally, special, limited-time exhibits are often included with “WildWoods: AGLOW” admission, offering new discoveries with each visit.
Tailored Experiences for All Ages
“WildWoods: AGLOW” is thoughtfully designed to be an inclusive event, welcoming visitors of all ages and abilities. The pathways are generally accessible, though strollers are permitted with a recommendation to use marked alternate routes in areas with uneven terrain. This commitment to accessibility ensures that a wide demographic from the Atlanta community can enjoy the wonders of the illuminated WildWoods.
Adding another layer to the event’s appeal, “WildWoods: AGLOW” coincides with Fernbank After Dark on specific evenings. These adult-only (21+) events are scheduled for November 14 and December 12 in 2025, and January 9 and February 13 in 2026. These special nights often incorporate themed activities, such as holiday celebrations, twinkling cocktails, and hands-on scientific engagement, offering a distinct experience for adults to socialize and discover. The ability of Fernbank Museum to curate diverse experiences, catering to families and adults separately, demonstrates a flexible approach to community programming.
Responsible Stewardship and Community Value
The creation of “WildWoods: AGLOW” reflects Fernbank Museum’s careful consideration for environmental impact and responsible stewardship of its natural assets. The museum collaborated extensively with its ecologist during the design process to ensure the installations avoid critical root zones, minimize environmental footprint, and conserve living collections. The event is specifically scheduled during fall and winter months, a period when the impact of artificial light on highly active nocturnal animals, particularly insects, is significantly reduced. Furthermore, the project utilizes existing infrastructure, such as paths and electrical systems, to reduce any new disturbance to the environment. This thoughtful approach underscores a dedication to preserving nature while enabling community engagement.
The collaboration between Fernbank Museum and partners like Thinkwell Group (now TAIT), a design and production company, showcases a model of private partnership that brings world-class experiences to Atlanta. This synergy allows for the integration of cutting-edge technology and artistic vision with scientific accuracy, as Fernbank’s science team meticulously guides the imagery, colors, and sounds. Such private initiatives are crucial for enriching Atlanta’s cultural landscape, providing unique opportunities for education, entertainment, and community gathering without relying solely on public funding. “WildWoods: AGLOW” is celebrated as a unique experience in Atlanta, becoming an annual tradition that connects residents with the hidden beauty and biodiversity of their local environment.
Discover the Glow of Atlanta’s Innovation
As “WildWoods: AGLOW” returns to the Fernbank Museum, it once again offers Atlanta a unique opportunity to engage with nature, science, and art. This event highlights the positive impact of local initiative, responsible planning, and private partnerships in creating enriching community experiences. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars for this extraordinary seasonal offering, support local institutions that drive civic innovation, and discover the luminous beauty that emerges when individual vision lights up the community. Exploring events like “WildWoods: AGLOW” is not just about entertainment; it’s about actively participating in the cultural and educational development that makes Atlanta, GA, a dynamic place to live and thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions about WildWoods: AGLOW
- What are the dates for WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank Museum for the upcoming season?
- WildWoods: AGLOW will be available on select nights from November 14, 2025, through February 28, 2026.
- What can visitors expect to see and experience at WildWoods: AGLOW?
- Visitors can expect a multi-sensory after-hours experience that immerses them in a dramatic exploration of nature through glowing and dynamic adventures, uniquely curated to highlight the living flora and fauna within WildWoods. Highlights include an interactive tulip poplar pod, projections of nocturnal wildlife, glowing native plant species, larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms, luminous dandelions, fluttering dragonflies, swarming bats, and glowing garden towers.
- Does the WildWoods: AGLOW ticket include access to the Fernbank Museum’s indoor exhibits?
- Yes, tickets for WildWoods: AGLOW include nighttime museum hours indoors, allowing guests to experience the full museum after-hours.
- Is WildWoods: AGLOW suitable for all ages?
- Yes, WildWoods: AGLOW is an all-ages event designed for visitors of all ages and abilities, except when it coincides with Fernbank After Dark events, which are for ages 21 and over only.
- When are the Fernbank After Dark events during WildWoods: AGLOW?
- Fernbank After Dark, an adult-only (21+) event, coincides with WildWoods: AGLOW on November 14, December 12, January 9, and February 13.
- What measures has Fernbank Museum taken regarding the environmental impact of WildWoods: AGLOW?
- Fernbank Museum has worked extensively with its ecologist to ensure the experience does not increase its footprint of activity in WildWoods and does not impact Fernbank Forest. The event is scheduled during fall/winter months to minimize light effects on highly active animals like insects, and it leverages existing infrastructure.
Key Features of WildWoods: AGLOW
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | Select nights from November 14, 2025, through February 28, 2026. |
| Location | WildWoods, the 10-acre woodlands behind Fernbank Museum, Atlanta, GA. |
| Experience Type | Multi-sensory after-hours experience combining dramatic artistry and original music compositions. |
| Outdoor Highlights | Interactive tulip poplar pod, projections of nocturnal wildlife, glowing native plant species, larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms, luminous dandelions, fluttering dragonflies, swarming bats, and glowing garden towers. |
| Indoor Access | Includes nighttime access to Fernbank Museum’s indoor exhibits such as “Fantastic Forces,” “NatureQuest,” and “Giants of the Mesozoic.” |
| Target Audience | Designed for visitors of all ages and abilities. |
| Adult-Only Nights | Coincides with Fernbank After Dark (21+ only) on Nov. 14, Dec. 12, Jan. 9, and Feb. 13. |
| Environmental Responsibility | Designed with ecological consultation, scheduled in cooler months to minimize impact, and uses existing infrastructure. |
| Collaboration | Produced in partnership with Thinkwell Group (now TAIT). |
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Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
