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Phoenix Zoo holiday tradition ZooLights opens tonight

The annual lights extravaganza kicks off with special activities on November 27.
Image: It's ZooLights time again at Phoenix Zoo.
It's ZooLights time again at Phoenix Zoo. Courtesy of Phoenix Zoo

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Beloved Valley holiday tradition ZooLights kicks off Wednesday evening with a host of special activities.

The annual event, which brings millions of lights and thousands of visitors to Phoenix Zoo, will kick off at 5:15 p.m. with a performance by the Queen Creek High School marching band.

Beloved Valley mascots such as the Arizona Diamondbacks' Baxter and the Fiesta Bowl's Spirit will be on hand.

At 5:30, Phoenix Zoo President Bert Castro and SPR President Jim Pratt will “flip the switch” to officially open the event. (SRP is the sponsor of ZooLights.)

What is ZooLights?

ZooLights is Phoenix Zoo's annual holiday event. It includes 4 million lights in displays that are wrapped around trees and cactuses, shaped into displays that look like animals or spell out the zoo logo.

This year, ZooLights features a 200-foot-long light tunnel, a light-and-music show located at the Zoo's lake area, an interactive Glow Garden and more.

Where and when is ZooLights?

ZooLights is at the Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway. It runs 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. nightly from Nov. 27 to Jan. 12, 2025.

What can I do at ZooLights?

The primary activity at ZooLights is to walk around and see the displays. In addition, guests can ride camels, ride the zoo's carousel, take a spin on the Safari Cruiser train, get a snack at the s'mores pit, get a photo with Santa, buy souvenirs and more.

What animals will I see at ZooLights?

Not many. Most animals will be asleep and/or in indoor enclosures during ZooLights hours. If you want to see animals, your best bet is to get there at 5:30 p.m. when ZooLights opens. However, in years past, we've seen flamingos, otters, javelinas, bald eagles and porcupines during ZooLights. Your mileage may vary.

click to enlarge
People of all ages will enjoy the s'mores pit at ZooLights.
Courtesy of Phoenix Zoo

How much does ZooLights cost?

The cost of ZooLights when you purchase tickets in advance is $25 for zoo members and $30 general admission. At the gate, tickets cost $30 for zoo members and $35 for general admission.

Children ages 2 and younger get into ZooLights for free; children 3 and up pay the full admission price.

Activities such as camel rides, photos with Santa, riding the carousel and enjoying the s'mores pit are available for an extra cost. Food and drink are also available for purchase.

When is the sensory-friendly ZooLights event?

Phoenix Zoo will host a sensory-friendly ZooLights event from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2. This event gives guests the full ZooLights with smaller crowds, quieter music, reduced flashing lights and other accommodations.