Illustration of a knitted family in hats and mittens in a snowy street with a snowman and glowing string lights (Zoolightful)
Christmas Lights

Zoolightful

Visitors can experience the zoo illuminated with thousands of dazzling lights and spectacular lantern displays across an expanded event footprint. The experience includes a journey through an African safari, an exploration of glowing underwater ocean worlds, and interactive light displays. Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats and festive family fun along the illuminated pathways.

Nov 18, 2026 – Jan 10, 2027 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Hours

6:30-9 p.m.

Food & Drink

Seasonal treats are available during the event.

Parking

Parking at the zoo is free for guests.

Location

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium · 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday-light enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive and magical

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Reserve tickets ahead, because December 23 has already sold out and other dates can fill up too.
  • Regular nights are Wednesday through Sunday, so plan Monday or Tuesday visits for the special December openings only.
  • Note the closures on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve before picking your night.
  • Dress warmly, since you'll spend the evening outdoors walking the lit pathways.
  • Leave tobacco at home, because the whole zoo is a tobacco-free facility.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Special Monday and Tuesday openings on December 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29.
  • New this year: an expanded footprint with all-new light displays and interactive experiences.

Links & Contact

Run by Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

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 we see?

The zoo is lit with thousands of lights and lantern displays. You journey through an African safari and the underwater world of the oceans, with interactive experiences along the way.

What's new this year?

This year it covers a bigger area, with all-new light displays and interactive experiences alongside returning favorites.

Is there food?

Yes. Seasonal treats are available along the route.

Do tickets sell out?

Yes. December 23 is already sold out, so reserve ahead for the date you want.

Where do we park?

Parking at the zoo is free for guests.

Browse Christmas in Omaha

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.

Contributors & Updates

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