Illustration of a couple and children walking through a tunnel of twinkling white lights in the snow (Smithsonian's National Zoo ZooLights)

Smithsonian's National Zoo ZooLights

Visitors can stroll through illuminated grounds featuring magical displays of glowing animal lanterns and one million environmentally-friendly LED lights. The holiday event also features live musical performances to watch and festive treats, including hot cocoa, to enjoy.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

nationalzoo.si.edu

When

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Cleveland Park/Woodley Park

Food & Drink

Sip hot cocoa and enjoy other festive treats.

Parking

Zoo parking passes cost more on the day of use than when bought in advance.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute · 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday light lovers

Vibe

Festive and magical

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Buy your Zoo parking pass ahead of time, because parking passes cost more when you buy them on the day of use.
  • If you're a Zoo member, go on December 8 or 9, when Member Nights offer exclusive ZooLights evenings for members and their families.
  • Dress warmly for an evening outdoors, and stop for hot cocoa or one of the other festive treats as you walk the grounds.
  • Leave time to catch the live musical performances as you make your way past the glowing animal lanterns and one million LED lights.

Special Events & Promotions

  • ZooLights Member Nights on December 8 and 9 are exclusive evenings for Zoo members and their families.

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

Is ZooLights a good outing for kids?

Yes. ZooLights is a family-friendly holiday tradition at the Zoo.

What is there to see and do at ZooLights?

You walk past displays of glowing animal lanterns and watch live musical performances. The whole Zoo is lit by one million environmentally-friendly LED lights.

Can we get food and drinks there?

Yes. Hot cocoa and other festive treats are available as you walk around.

Are there special nights for Zoo members?

Yes. ZooLights Member Nights on December 8 and 9 are exclusive evenings for members and their families.

Does my visit help the Zoo?

Yes. Each ZooLights visit helps support the Zoo's mission to save species and protect habitats worldwide.

View More FAQs

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