Chesterfield U.S. Bank's Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo
Guests walk through dazzling light displays featuring over one million twinkling lights across Historic Hill, roast s'mores over open firepits, and visit Santa. Included attractions feature the Mary Ann Lee Conservation Carousel, a 4D theater screening "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D," and open exhibits like the Penguin & Puffin Coast and Charles H. Hoessle Herpetarium. Visitors can also enjoy specialty hot chocolate, craft-making for kids, and roaming entertainment.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Zoo members: $16; general admission: $19; free for children 0–23 months. Wild Explorer Virtual Reality Experience is an additional $5 fee. Groups of 15 or more may receive a discounted ticket rate when purchased at least eight days before the visit.
Hours
5–8:30 p.m.; last entry is 8 p.m. Santa visits are every night through Dec. 23, with last entry for Santa at 8:15 p.m. nightly.
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
Roast s’mores over open firepits and try specialty hot chocolate in naughty or nice versions.
Parking
Parking is free on both Zoo lots, including the North and South Lots, as available and first-come, first-served; lots may reach capacity. If they are full, limited free street parking within Forest Park is available.
Accessibility
Stroller, wheelchair, and ECV rentals are available at the Zoo with standard rental fees applying.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Buy tickets online in advance because popular dates can sell out; only tickets purchased directly from the Zoo are valid and transferable tickets are not accepted.
- Allow time for parking: the North and South lots are free but first-come, first-served, and limited free street parking is available if they fill.
- If visiting the Zoo earlier, leave by 4 p.m. and return for ticket scanning starting at 5 p.m.; daytime access does not continue through the event.
- Dress for an outdoor evening walk, since Wild Lights centers on strolling among displays and precipitation or high winds can affect some lights.
- Groups of 15 or more may qualify for a discount by purchasing at least eight days ahead; buy by phone or at the North Entrance ticket desk.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free admission for children ages 0–23 months.
- Zoo members receive discounted admission.
- Groups of 15 or more may receive discounted tickets when purchased at least eight days before the visit.
- Sensory-Friendly Night is on Dec. 7 for neurodivergent guests with sensory sensitivities.
- Wild Explorer Virtual Reality Experience is available for an additional fee.
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
Is Wild Lights suitable for children?
It is a family event, and children aged 0–23 months are admitted free.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Tickets can sell out, though online tickets may be available on the event night if space remains.
What can visitors do during Wild Lights?
See the light displays, visit Santa through December 23, ride the carousel, watch the Rudolph 4D film, and explore the listed open animal exhibits.
What food and drink are available?
Guests can roast s’mores over firepits and get specialty hot chocolate in naughty or nice versions.
What are the parking and accessibility arrangements?
Parking is free in the North and South Lots while spaces last; limited free street parking in Forest Park is available if they fill. Wheelchair, stroller, and ECV rental fees apply.
Browse Christmas in St. Louis
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.