HOUSTON – Zoo Lights is returning to the Houston Zoo from Nov. 15 to Jan. 9.
The Houston Zoo is transformed into a winter spectacular and will feature timed tickets to allow for proper social distancing while visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season. The event will have increased cleaning and disinfecting to ensure a safe visit for all, according to the zoo.
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Here’s what you can do:
- During Zoo Lights, guests can sip their hot chocolate as LED lighting illuminates the ancient oak trees and decorates the paths to light the way.
- See the Great Ape Gallery transformed into an Illuminated Ocean, a glowing underwater adventure. This immersive experience takes you “underwater” as you walk under illuminated jellyfish and other sea creatures overhead.
- Get a selfie in front of the new 33′ tall color-changing holiday tree.
- Take a socially distanced photo with Santa as he prepares for the holidays in his workshop.
- Stroll through a 125-foot-long, Infinity Tunnel of Light
- Walk under a canopy of glowing flowers and butterflies in the hanging pollinator garden.
- See “snow” in Texas and explore Winter Wonderland
During the nightly event, the zoo animals settle down for their long winter’s nap, and the star attraction is the lights. To see the Zoo’s animals, guests are encouraged to visit during regular daytime hours.
TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights is a separately ticketed event, held daily from 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. with the last entry at 9:30 p.m. The zoo closes for the day at 4:00 p.m. and re-opens as TXU Energy Presents Zoo Lights at 5:30 p.m. Tickets prices range from $12.90 - $29.95. Zoo members save $3 per ticket when they login to their membership account to buy tickets. For the best price, guests are encouraged to buy early.
As with every zoo visit, guests 10 years and older are required to wear proper face coverings. Tickets must be purchased online prior to attending Zoo Lights.
For more information, go here.
Specialty Nights
Member Preview Nights
Tues. and Wed., Nov. 10, 11
Zoo members can enjoy two, member preview nights and see the lights before anyone else.
Brew Lights
Thurs., Nov. 12
Adults 21 and up are invited to enjoy Zoo Lights without the kids! Stroll through the Zoo with a Saint Arnold brew, hard seltzer, or spiked hot chocolate during this 21+ event. Brew Lights tickets include two drinks. Additional safety measures are in place for this year’s event, and tickets must be purchased online in advance.
TXU Energy presents Zoo Lights: VIP Experience
Sat., Nov. 28, Dec. 19, and Dec. 26
See the animals at the Zoo during the day and get early access to Zoo Lights. VIP ticket holders receive daytime Zoo admission, a complimentary meal at Cypress Circle Café, and exclusive access to Zoo Lights before the public.
Sensory Friendly Night
Mon., Dec. 7
On this Zoo Lights night, guests can expect a smaller crowd, quieter music, limited flashing lights, and designated quiet areas.
Additional Specialty Nights
Military, first responders, and educators are all eligible for a $3 discount off admission. Qualified guests will use a special discount code when purchasing tickets online, and they will need to present their professional ID at the gate.