ZooLights:
Timeless tradition.
Endless wonder.
Presented by SRP
Whether you visit ZooLights every year, or you’re starting a brand-new family tradition, the Phoenix Zoo has everything you need to celebrate the season.
Embrace the holiday spirit as more than four million twinkling lights transform the Phoenix Zoo into a winter wonderland with over two miles of glimmering tree-lined trails, dozens of life-like animal lanterns and the tallest floating tree in North America, featuring an all-new light show.
Relax by the firepit while enjoying s’mores and hot cocoa, swing into fun at the Glow Garden, get your photo with Santa and create lasting holiday memories at the Phoenix Zoo.
Event Details
Dates:
November 26, 2025 – January 16, 2026
Location:
Phoenix Zoo
Time:
5:30 – 10:30 p.m.
Ages:
All ages
(Children 2 and under are free)
Price:
Member: $30
General: $35
Please note that most animals will not be visible during ZooLights. If you are interested in seeing more of the animals, we suggest visiting during daytime hours.
During this special evening, you can expect the same great ZooLights with some modifications to make it more sensory friendly, including smaller crowds, quieter music, reduced flashing lights and more. This event requires a separate ticket.
From the comfort of your car, drive through our immersive light tunnel, experience millions of twinkling lights and dazzling animal sculptures and enjoy Music-in-Motion Light Shows on our main lake. This event requires a separate ticket.
ZooLights Group/Bulk tickets are available when purchasing 50 tickets in advance.
ZooLights admission tickets are good for one (1) single admission on any public night of ZooLights.
Dates and hours are subject to change without notice.
Tickets are valid for any one night between November 26, 2025 – January 16, 2026.
* Tickets are non-refundable.
THINGS TO DO
Lake Lights Show
The Lake Lights Show, presented by Midwestern University, is a stunning, immersive experience featuring a 50 ft. LED tree, featuring new music and synchronized imagery!
Glow Garden
The Zoo’s Glow Garden, presented by Chevron, is a myriad of glowing experiences including a glowing dance floor and interactive glow swings. Get your glow on!
SHOWS
Animal Presentations at Doornbos Discovery Amphitheater nightly and community performances Wednesdays & Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Photos with Santa
Have your photo taken with Santa Claus, who will also be present on Guardian & Donor Night and Member Preview Nights. Reserve a time with Santa here (separate fee applies).
Virtual Reality Adventure
Step inside a world where animals, art and technology collide, featuring the Wild XR VR experience and an all-new illuminated animal paintings exhibition titled “Lights On” by artist Russell Ronat.
Wildlife LanternS
Over 50 animal lanterns will connect you with the wildlife our Zoo works to protect and conserve throughout Arizona and the world.
200-foot-long immersive light tunnel
Take a stroll through the 200-foot-long immersive light tunnel, presented by America First Credit Union.
Jengo
Jengo, presented by Edward Jones, is back! After a couple of years off Jengo is back and better than ever.
Storybook Nook
It’s always story time at the Storybrook Nook! Grab a seat and listen to Mabel’s famous fables.
PARKING
Carpool with family and friends.
Watch for message boards when approaching the Zoo for parking information.
If the main lots are full, message boards will direct you to the overflow lot at Phoenix Municipal Stadium located at the southwest corner of Van Buren and Priest. The walk from the overflow lot is on a well-lit and paved pathway and takes approximately 15 minutes.
SHOPPING & DINING
Holiday Gifts & Toys
Take home a memento from your special evening. Visit one of the various pop-up Zoo shops or the Plaza gift shop!
s'mores by the fire
Snuggle up around the fire pits with your friends and family while making your own s’mores and special memories, presented by Primrose Schools. Located in Plaza de los Niños.
Kettle Corn & Hot Cocoa
Indulge in your favorite holiday treats including kettle corn and hot cocoa. These are must-haves as you experience ZooLights!
Don’t forget to take a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel, ride a camel for the ultimate photo-op, enjoy s’mores by the fire and more!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
- In general, the least crowded nights to attend are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
- If you prefer later in the holiday season, please note that the first two weeks of December and the entirety of January tend to be less popular.
- The majority of people arrive when the gates first open, so an alternative is to arrive around 7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. after the first wave of visitors have come and gone.
- Purchase your tickets online to save time when you arrive.
QUESTIONS?
Contact us with your ZooLights questions!
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Become a Sponsor
Align your brand with the Valley’s “brightest” holiday tradition!
For more information, contact Shannon Kinsman at skinsman@phoenixzoo.org
