Today we are talking about ZooLights, a tradition in the valley that started in 1992. It has come very far over the years with so many improvements and fun additions. You don’t want to miss it, it’s truly one of the classic holiday experiences in the Valley.
This event has become one of our favorite family traditions. Grab your kettle corn, hot cocoa and maybe an adult beverage for mom and dad and get ready to make some memories!
Keep reading for how to avoid the crowds, best times to go and more mom hacks.
If you’re looking for more holiday inspiration and reviews, be sure to check out our full holiday events roundup here. It’s got full sections of pre-naptime day fun, free holiday fun and more holiday inspiration to make this holiday season magical for your family.
XO,
Best Nights to Go to ZooLights
If you are a member of the zoo, consider visiting on one of the two member preview nights. It is not as crowded or cold (spoken like a true AZ native).
Member preview nights are early in the season, so you need to check in November for dates.
During member preview nights the zoo has a few special experiences just for members. Mrs. Claus will be there on those nights only, and last year they were also offering free carousel rides.
Also, when we renew our membership each year the zoo includes two free tickets to ZooLights! Bonus!
Ticket Hacks for ZooLights
Zoolights runs from November 27, 2024 – January 12, 2025 from 5:30-10:30pm.
Two events that require a separate ticket are: Sensory Friendly Zoolights (Monday, December 2) and Cruise Zoolights (November 10, 11, 12 and January 13 and 14).
Buying tickets in advance online is always your best bet to avoid lines at the gate and save $5/ticket. Children 2 and under are free.
Don’t forget to use your zoo membership card to get discounted tickets.
ZooLights with Babies and Toddlers
I suggest getting there early, especially if you have little ones. The earlier you arrive means less crowds and closer parking. I’d also consider packing dinner and bringing it in with you.
Last year they had a snake and a turtle at the entrance. My older preschooler aged son said his favorite part of ZooLights was petting the snake.
What we skipped at ZooLights with Kids
In my humble opinion, skip the photos with Santa.
The line can be long and they are crazy expensive to purchase. I had sticker shock in 2022 so we skipped this in 2023. Apparently you can pre schedule times for Santa photos to avoid waiting in a long line but I would still skip it because of the cost of the actual photos.
We also skipped the s’mores/fire pit because of the ages of our boys.
Experiences over Gifts
Consider asking a family member for tickets to ZooLights as a Christmas gift. It would be great to experience it together!For more information and FAQ be sure to visit: https://www.phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights/
