Event Features
Live Entertainment | Chinese acrobats and entertainers perform nightly at 6:00, 7:00 and 8:00 pm at the Amphitheater.
Animal Friends | Most of our animals go to bed before dark. However, Sumatran tiger and flamingos can stay up until 8:30 pm. Unseen New World will be open all night except on select weekend nights for Night Owls.
Beverages | Hot cocoa (spiked available), beer, margaritas, specialty cocktails, coffee and soda will be available for purchase until around 8:00 pm nightly.
Food | Quills Cafe and Screaming Gibbon Pizza Kitchen will be open and festive sweet treats + classic Zoo snacks will be available at concession stands until around 8:00 pm nightly.
Meet Santa | Nov. 24 to Dec. 24, meet Santa at the barn behind the Historic Home starting at 5:30 pm
Know Before You Go
Advance tickets are suggested!
Parking is $8. Members park free.
This is a rain, snow or shine event. No refunds or rainchecks.
Tickets are available online and at the gate on the night of the event. Advance ticket sales are available online only.
Bigger, Brighter, Bolder!
Zoolumination Returns With a Whole New Show
Zoolumination returns this winter with all new lantern scenes full of colorful, whimsical imagery and fantastical beasts you've never seen.
- Chinese artists have reimagined dozens of mythical creatures in bright and colorful scenes throughout the Zoo.
- With twice as many colorful lanterns as before, this walkthrough experience is sure to delight all ages.
- Visit North Pole Village a must-see area, full of festive lights and holiday fun! Plus, Santa will visit each night until Dec. 24