Baton Rouge Zoo's Zoo Lights
Visitors wander along lighted pathways through a magical wonderland featuring thousands of dazzling lights. On select evenings before Christmas, families can stop inside Classroom 3 at the main entrance to visit with Santa Claus. Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats at the Flamingo Café, ride the zoo train on weekend nights, or browse the Adventure Market Gift Shop for holiday gifts.
Nov 27 – Dec 30, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Hours
Admission gates open 5:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.; grounds close at 9:00 p.m.
Food & Drink
The Flamingo Café serves specialty holiday items alongside its regular menu.
Accessibility
Strollers, wheelchairs, and electric conveyance vehicles are available for rental on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pets
Pets are not allowed; trained, leashed service animals are welcome.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Bring a non-perishable food item to receive a discount on regular admission; donations go to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.
- Wear clothing suited to the weather, since the light display remains open during rain and refunds or rainchecks are not issued.
- Stay on the lighted, designated paths because some zoo areas are closed during the event.
- Leave flashlights and laser pointers at home; take photos or videos without using flash.
- Plan train rides for Friday through Sunday, since the train does not operate Monday through Thursday.
Special Events & Promotions
- Guests presenting a non-perishable food item receive a discount on regular admission.
- Santa visits on Fridays and Saturdays before Christmas.
- Zoo train rides are offered Friday through Sunday; the train does not run Monday through Thursday.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I see at Zoo Lights?
Follow a trail of thousands of lights; animal viewing is limited, and some zoo areas are closed.
Can I ride the zoo train during Zoo Lights?
Train rides are offered Friday through Sunday; the train does not run Monday through Thursday.
Is food available during the event?
The Flamingo Café serves specialty holiday items as well as its regular menu.
Can I bring a flashlight or take photos?
Flashlights and laser pointers are not allowed. Photos and videos are permitted without flash.
Are service animals allowed, and can I bring a pet?
Trained, leashed service animals are welcome; pets are not allowed on zoo grounds.
Browse Christmas in Central
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.