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POWELL, Ohio – One of Central Ohio’s most treasured holiday traditions is about to shine even brighter. Now in its 37th year, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will once again transform the Zoo into a glowing winter wonderland, offering millions of LED lights, dazzling displays, and meaningful moments for families and friends.

Powered efficiently by AEP Ohio, this beloved tradition blends holiday magic with sustainability, reinforcing the Zoo’s mission to protect wildlife and wild places. Each year, the event not only spreads cheer but also supports the local economy by drawing hundreds of thousands of guests to Central Ohio during the holiday season.

New in 2025

This season introduces brand-new displays and experiences, offering fresh ways for guests to make memories:

• Adventure Cove Animated Pixel Passage – A 200-foot immersive tunnel illuminated by more than 32,000 pixels—the equivalent of 2.5 miles of glowing lights from end to end.
• Two New Animated Musical Light Displays at Conservation Lake – Experience “Global Celebrations” and “Electric Holiday,” featuring illuminated trees, animal light figures and all new dazzling laser lights set to festive music.
• Global Traditions Plaza – Illuminated silhouettes highlighting cultural traditions from around the world fill Entry Village, celebrating the many ways people honor the season.
• North America Trek – Step into the Zoo’s newest region, shimmering with holiday lighting throughout the recently-opened North America Trek.
• Projections at a New Location – The elephant habitat will be the new home for this dazzling digital art experience, allowing guests to take in the breathtaking display while they meet the herd.
• New Character Ambassador Meet and Greet and Photo Experiences – Two new themed meet and greet and photo opportunities to capture the holiday spirit with your favorite Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Character Ambassadors.

Returning Favorites

Wildlights guests can look forward to timeless traditions that bring the season to life, including:

• Dave the Snowman – The Zoo’s beloved three-tiered greeter welcomes guests with holiday cheer at the main entrance.
• Notes of Hope, presented by OhioHealth – Send a holiday message to patients receiving care at an OhioHealth facility.
• Ring in the New Year with Diamond Cellar – Guests can step into a larger-than-life ring for a sparkling photo opportunity in Adventure Cove.
• Sparkling Spruce, presented by Diamond Cellar – This towering holiday centerpiece returns with two alternating light shows: “Candela: The Evolution of Light” and “Christmas Cheer Masterpiece.”
• Conservation Courtyard Tree – A shining reminder of the Zoo’s mission of Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.
• Sounds of the Season, presented by 93.3 The Bus – Local community bands and choirs perform nightly at 7 p.m. at Lakeside Theater.
• Oak Ridge Bears Jingle Jamboree, presented by Two Rivers Restaurant and Bar – The animated bear band keeps the beat in Asia Quest.
• Dino Island Yuletide Boat Ride – A prehistoric twist on holiday fun.
• 12 Days of Wildlights Train Ride, presented by Primrose Schools – A whimsical journey inspired by a classic carol.
• Jingle Jam, presented by Nationwide – Festive entertainment for guests of all ages.

Animals to See During Wildlights

Many animals remain visible in their indoor habitats, and some can be seen outdoors, making a winter visit to the Zoo extra special.

To make the most of the day, guests are encouraged to arrive before 4 p.m. to see animals like gorillas and orangutans, who prefer to settle in early for the night. Outdoor viewing opportunities may include reindeer and tigers, while indoor habitats provide close-up experiences with other species. Highlights include:

• North America Trek – Bob Evans Farms’ The Barn and opportunities to see species (such as Mexican wolves and bald eagle) throughout the region 
• Adventure Cove – Sea lions and harbor seals
• Jack Hanna’s Animal Encounters Village – A variety of animal species (open until 8 p.m.)
• Naomi Coyle Dempsey Quest for Enlightenment Interpretive Center – Bats, langur monkeys, and sloth bears
• Asia Quest – Asian elephants, including two calves born in July and October. (select times)
• Discovery Reef – Colorful fish and sharks
• Manatee Conservation Center – Manatees, including Stubby, a longtime resident, and calves living at the Zoo for rehabilitation before the calves are returned to their native Florida waters
• Reptile Building – Snakes, turtles, and hellbenders

These animal experiences, combined with millions of LED lights, make Wildlights a uniquely memorable celebration that connects guests with wildlife and the Zoo’s conservation mission.

Parking and Traffic Information

Guests heading to Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are encouraged to review arrival and parking guidelines in advance. Because the event draws heavy attendance and sees elevated road traffic in the surrounding area, both Zoo entrances will be open and the parking lot will feature directional signage and additional staff to guide vehicles.

For full details—including traffic tips, parking lot layout, and guest arrival guidance—visit the Zoo’s Wildlights guest experience webpage.

A Sustainable Celebration

Each year, Wildlights uses energy-efficient LED lights and technology to reduce its environmental footprint. This aligns with the Zoo’s conservation mission and commitment to creating a brighter future for wildlife and communities alike.

“Wildlights is a Central Ohio holiday treasure that brings people together, supports local businesses, and reflects the joy of the season while honoring our commitment to caring for the natural world. We are proud to celebrate this beloved holiday tradition with our community, and we are grateful to AEP Ohio for their continued support in helping us bring this magical experience to life in an energy-conscious way,” said Tom Schmid, president and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.

Event Details

Wildlights runs from Nov. 21, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, and is included with Zoo admission. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance for the best experience. For more information, including hours, admission details, and updates on new features, visit www.columbuszoo.org.

For information about the Columbus Zoo’s other events, conservation initiatives, educational programs, and more, follow the Zoo’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram,  TikTok, and LinkedIn, and visit us at ColumbusZoo.org.