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One of Ohio's Favorite Holiday Traditions!

With millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows, and other holiday festivities, the yuletide season comes alive at an experience that can only be found at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. 

Admission to Wildlights is included with your Zoo admission or with your Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Membership.

NOVEMBER 22 - JANUARY 5  |  SUNDAY - THURSDAY: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.  |  FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Purchase Tickets

 

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Things to see

Stroll the Zoo and keep your eye out for jaw-dropping displays and attractions!  A full list will be added here in November 2024.


Things to Do

tour cart at the Zoo's Wildlight festival

Want to take your Wildlights visit up a notch? Book a VIP Wildlights Tour!

reindeer

Guests are encouraged to arrive before 4 p.m. to view some animals like the gorillas and orangutans, who like to go to sleep early. 

Other animals may be able to be seen outdoors, while others can be found in their indoor habitats, including: 

  • Sea lions (Adventure Cove)
  • Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village (Adventure Cove)
  • Naomi Coyle Dempsey Quest for Enlightenment Interpretive Center (Asia Quest)
  • Pachyderm Building (Asia Quest)
  • Discovery Reef (Shores & Aquarium)
  • Manatee Coast (Shores & Aquarium)
  • Reptile Building (Shores & Aquarium)

couple walking from camera

Take a self-paced brisk walking tour with OhioHealth!


FOOD, DRINK, and Retail

beer taps

Holiday delights that are both holly AND jolly!

Top off your homemade s'more with a hot chocolate, grab the perfect holiday gift for your loved one (or yourself), and sip on suds while you stroll the Zoo.

  • Dining options are available around the Zoo, featuring everything from a warm pretzel to the best fried chicken you'll have all holiday season.
  • Seasonal beers and cocktails are available at kiosks throughout the Zoo.
  • Stroll through our gift shops for that perfect Zoo gift!  Hint: Zoo members receive a 10% discount on all retail items!

fOOD AND RETAIL AT THE ZOO

Jolliest of Holidays Craft Beer Selection

Guests age 21+ will have the opportunity to sample dozens of craft beers, ciders, and seltzers from several sampling locations throughout the park! Both full-size and tasting-size portions are available for purchase.

Jolliest Holiday craft beer tasting locations will be located throughout the Zoo and will be open Thursday through Sunday evenings beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Weather permitting. Additional fees apply.
 

S'mores Experience

Located near Wild Burger

Gather around a glowing fire to roast your own giant marshmallow and enjoy this favorite holiday treat while creating even more holiday memories. 

Open 5:00 p.m. 'til park close, weather permitting. Additional fees apply.
 

 


EVENTS

Plan Your Wildlights Trip in the Palm of Your Hands!

Download the FREE Columbus Zoo and Aquarium map before your visit!

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