ZooLights:
Timeless tradition.
Endless wonder.
Presented by SRP
When night falls, the Phoenix Zoo lights up. ZooLights is more than just a light display. It’s the heartbeat of the holidays in the Valley.
Feel the holiday spirit while you stroll under the light of five million lights across over two miles of glimmering Zoo trail. Cozy up by the water to see the all-new floating Christmas tree light show or stumble into a pounding rhinoceros rave under pulsing laser. Snap a photo with Santa Clause then explore the mind-bending illusions in the brand-new “Wander the Wonder, A Trail Less Ordinary” experience.
Whether you’re starting a new seasonal tradition or continuing a beloved family ritual, bright winter memories await around every turn. Bundle up, bring your festive cheer, and get ready to shine bright all season long!
Event Details
Dates:
November 25, 2026 – January 15, 2027
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 the floating light show 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 25, 2026 – January 15, 2027.
* Tickets are non-refundable.
THINGS TO DO
Lake Lights Show
Be amazed by this stunning, immersive experience featuring a 50 ft. LED tree, new music and synchronized imagery, presented by Midwestern University. This year, we’ve added to the spectacular with six more 24-foot trees.
Glow Garden
The Zoo’s Glow Garden, presented by Whataburger, is a myriad of glowing experiences including a glowing dance floor and interactive glow swings. Get your glow on!
Wander the Wonder
Step onto the Arizona Trail for an all-new, mesmerizing journey into the unexpected. Lose yourself among the new installations with surprises around every turn.
Photos with Santa
Have your photo taken with Santa Claus from November 25 – December 23, 2026. Reservations opening soon (separate fee applies).
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).
Dinosaurs in the Desert
The Phoenix Zoo has been invaded by dinos, and they won’t be asleep during ZooLights. Stroll through the lit-up dinosaur trail and get prehistoric experiences across the Zoo.
SHOWS
Animal Presentations at the Doornbos Discovery Amphitheater nightly and community performances.
Animal Presentations at Doornbos Discovery Amphitheater nightly and community performances Wednesdays & Thursdays at 6 p.m. View the performance schedule here.
170-foot-long immersive light tunnel
Take a stroll through the 200-foot-long immersive light tunnel, presented by America First Credit Union.
Jengo & Milia
Chat with your favorite joke-telling giraffe in the “Camp Jengo” show. This year, he’s brought his friend, Milia with him for the ZooLights season.
Storybook Nook
It’s always story time at the Storybrook Nook! Grab a seat and listen to Mabel’s famous fables.
Three Story Christmas Tree
Behold this giant icon of the holiday season, presented by Valley Toyota Dealers. This is the perfect backdrop to a festive family photo.
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 by the fire with your friends and family while making your own s’mores and special memories, presented by Total Wireless. Located in Plaza de los Niños.
Kettle Corn & Hot Cocoa
Indulge in your favorite holiday treats, including kettle corn and a hot cocoa stand presented by Valley Toyota Dealers.
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 guests arrive when the gates first open. Arriving around 7:30 – 8 p.m. after the first wave of guests has come and gone can help make entry smoother.
- 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 Bill Ottinger.
