Illustration of Santa in a red knitted suit reading a paper list with a small child beside a lit tree and fireplace (Nights Before Christmas)
Christmas Lights

Nights Before Christmas

Visitors can explore twinkling holiday light displays and catch peeks at zoo animals after dark. The event includes photo opportunities with Santa and his reindeer alongside hot cocoa and holiday cookies. Guests can also take a holiday ride on the Prairie Thunder railroad.

Dec 12 – Dec 27, 2026 All ages

Website / Tickets

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Plan Your Visit

Hours

6pm-9pm.

Food & Drink

Hot cocoa and holiday cookies are included with admission.

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Hutchinson Zoo · 6 Emerson Loop E, Hutchinson, KS 67501 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with children

Vibe

Festive and family-friendly

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets in advance to guarantee entry; gate tickets are sold too, but expect to wait in line.
  • Use the buy-three-get-one-free deal if you're bringing a group of four or more.
  • Have tickets ready for everyone in your party at the gate, because all tickets must be shown there to get the whole group in.
  • Dress for the weather and bundle up, since the event runs rain or shine and you'll be outdoors after dark.
  • Pick your night carefully before buying, because tickets are non-refundable. Online ticketing closes on the afternoon of each event day.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Encore Lights Presentation on December 25, 26 and 27.
  • Prairie Nights: Holiday Lights, Happy Hour is a separate event on December 11.
  • Buy three tickets, get one free.
  • Watch for announcements of special guest appearances throughout the event.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets 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 does a ticket include?

Your ticket covers the Zoo's holiday light show, cookies, cocoa, photos with Santa and a holiday ride on the Prairie Thunder railroad.

Will we see the animals?

Yes. The lights celebration includes peeks at the zoo animals after dark.

Who is it for?

It's an outing for the whole family. Santa and his reindeer are visiting again this year, and there are plenty of photo spots.

Can I buy tickets at the gate?

Yes, but be prepared to wait in line. Advance tickets guarantee entry, and online sales close on the afternoon of each event day.

What if the weather is bad?

The event goes ahead rain or shine.

View More FAQs

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.

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